James Keith Sims, 90, passed away July 13,2025, surrounded by his family.
He was born March 23, 1935, in Sparta, to Tom Frank and Emogene Sims.
Keith was the oldest of five children. After graduation from White County High School, Keith enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his county in the Korean War. After returning home from his service, he worked several jobs that included driving a tractor-trailer and driving a school bus for White County School System, but his favorite job was helping run the family farm. Keith also loved attending U.T. football games with his brothers.
In addition to his parents, Keith was preceded in death by two sisters, Jean Ann Chambers (husband Bobby), Rubye Todd; brother, Glenn Sims; and sister-in-law, Jan Sims.
Keith is survived by his wife of 32 years, Margaret Alfreida “Freida” Sims; son, Terry Sims (Crystal); stepsons, Grover Lee Wilson (Kristen Bailey), Steven Wilson (Brenda), Phillip Wilson (Tina); brother, Tommy Sims; sisters-in-law, Kim Sims, Shirley Kittle; brother-in-law, John Todd; grandchildren, Lauren Sims, Bethany Bogle, Kierstin Sims, Will Wilson, Tad Wilson (Jocelyn), Molly Wilson, Megan Wilson, McKena Young, Madox Young; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
A celebration of life will be Aug. 6, 2025, at Valley View Baptist Church, in Sparta, with full military honors. The family will receive friends 1-2 p.m., Aug. 6, with the service at 2 p.m.
Honorary pallbearers include Gary Gibson, Charlie Hickey, Ernie Raper, Charles Sims, Koltin Sims, Seth Sims, Zaylan Sims, Charlie Wright, and Madox Young.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
