Funeral Services for Willie Roosevelt Sims were held Friday, November 14, 2025 @ 12:00 noon at St. Paul United Methodist Church 1120 Sparks Rd, Toxey, AL 36921 with Rev. Bobby   Sanders officiating.  Internment followed in the church cemetery.

Willie R. Sims, affectionately known as Oot, was born on August 2, 1935, in Choctaw County.  Roosevelt was the third of twelve children born to the late Gabriel and Ilover (Dunagan) Sims.   After years of declining health, he passed peacefully in his home surrounded by family, at the age of 90.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Gabriel  and Ilover Sims; his wife, Ruthie Mae Sims; one son, Gene Barry Sims; two great grandchildren, Kyron and Shakley Sims; and siblings, Leroy Sims, Gabriel Sims, Jr., Zaylee Sims Pace Harris, and Evelyn Sims.

Roosevelt grew up in Hodgewood, AL where he attended school and learned the value of hard work and perseverance—qualities that would guide him throughout his life.  A man of many talents, Roosevelt was known for his skills in carpentry, farming, hunting, and his tireless work ethic as a truck driver.  He took great pride in every task he undertook, always lending a helping hand whenever needed.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his children, Bettye Campbell (Robert) Brookins, Mary (Carl) Bynum, Alesia (Billie) Hicks, Willie (Stella) Sims, Sandra Sims, and Corey (Shawnda) Nelson; five sisters; one brother; two sisters-in-law;  one daughter-in-love; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-three great grandchildren; four great- great grandchildren; and a host of extended family and dear friends

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