William "Bill" J. Sims, Sr. was born October 30, 1928, in Panama City, Florida. His adventurous life came to an end peacefully at Lexington Medical Center on May 14, 2024.

He is survived by his two sons, David M. Sims, Sr. (Cynthia), William J. Sims, Jr. (Marjorie); and daughter, Bonnie Sims; five precious grandchildren, David Michael, Jr., Daphne Anna (Sean), Don Maxwell (Jenna), Carli Jo (Dylan), and Jacob William (Abby); as well as numerous other relatives and dear friends all over the world. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 66 years, Edna Maxine Rains Sims, on March 9, 2014.

In 1956 they attended the Bible School of Gilead near Ithaca, NY, where they were trained as missionaries. For a number of years, they worked as full-time ministers before beginning a family and settling in Columbia. Bill was a member of the St. Andrews Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.

His lifelong, faithful course of service to Jehovah God set a beautiful example and will undoubtedly continue to motivate many to imitate his love, zeal, and integrity. As he often encouraged, "Straight ahead!"

Also known as "Paw Paw" and "Tad", William Sims, Sr., is deeply loved and cherished by his family. The greatest gift he gave to them was teaching them to love our Heavenly Father and the precious truths contained in His Word, the Bible. These were his favorite topics of conversation.

The memorial service for Mr. Sims will be held at 2 o'clock, Saturday, May 25th at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 1048 W Shady Grove Rd, Irmo, SC 29063. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the Kingdom Hall beginning at 1:15 o'clock.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.