Donald R. Sims, 80, of Waterlick, VA, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, surrounded by his family.
Donald was born on June 1, 1942, to Delma and Willie Sims in Charlottesville, VA, who preceded him in death.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Patty Sims; daughters, Susie Poe (Donnie) and Julie Reinhardt (Martin); best friend and faithful four-legged companion, Mick, grandchildren, Mandy Poe Newman, Emily Reinhardt, Deuce Newman, and Hudson Newman; and step-grandchildren, Jason Poe, and Kaitlin Poe. He is also survived by his brothers, Charles Sims (Jennifer), Doug Sims (Beverly), and Michael Sims, all of Waterlick, VA.
Donald and Patty met in 1959 and married three years later. Donald began an accomplished career at a young age and mastered many trades. He retired from the Smithsonian Conservation and Research Center.
After his retirement, being a lifelong “do-er,” Donald continued to work on various projects alongside his wife. In his free time, Donald most enjoyed farming, boating, and meticulously maintaining his homestead on one of his trusty John Deere Tractors. He looked forward to hay season each and every year. He especially enjoyed his time boating on the Shenandoah River and Smith Mountain Lake – both of which he enjoyed for many years.
His family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, January 26 at 10 AM at Maddox Funeral Home in Front Royal, Virginia. Funeral services will follow at 11 AM. Burial will immediately follow in Panorama Memorial Gardens in Waterlick, VA. A fellowship meal will be held afterwards at 19820 Fort Valley Road, Strasburg, VA.
Pallbearers will be Donald Poe, Martin Reinhardt, Sean Newman, Arthur Saffelle, Manuel Tederick, and Jimmy North.
Honorary pallbearers will be Gilbert Himes, Billy Biggs, Mark Merchant, J.R. Dove, Greg Johnson, Charlie Johnson, Dave Coffey, Irvin Rudacille, Michael C. Sims and Fernando Marquez Velazquez.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Blue Ridge Hospice and the Warren County Humane Society.
Patty – Thoughts and prayers for you and the girls.
Patty, Susie, and Julie my deepest sympathy for your loss.
Dear Patty, Susie, Julie, and family
My deepest sympathy in the loss of Donald. He was a dear friend. I have so many fond memories of the Sims family. My thoughts, prayers, and love to you all. Love Barbara
Patty, So sorry to hear of Donalds’ passing, I know he will be sorely missed.
Lots of love to you and the family. T
So sorry for your loss to all of his family and friends. I grew up in waterlick and knew him , his parents and his brothers. at my mothers funeral in 1976 he and Charles were pallbearer and my daddy said to both brothers I am mayor of water lick but when I pass it will take you both to be mayor and they all laughed and until my fathers death in 1996 they were friends .he was very special person who will be missed by many. may he rest in peace and prayers to his family.
Patty Russell and Barbara are so sorry for your loss of your dear sweet Donald thoughts and prayers for you and your family
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heart and prayers are with all of you.
We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers for all of you.
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a good man. My thoughts are with you.
Prayers to all!!