Benjamin Sims

Benjamin Jacob Sims was born on June 26, 1943, in Rutledge, Alabama, to the Late Zell Sims and Zola Bedgood Sims. Of this union, five children were born:  Queenie Elizabeth, John Zell, Benjamin Jacob, and Samuel Esau. He is preceded in death by his parents, all the forementioned siblings including Rosebud Bedgood Hamilton, and paternal siblings with the exception of Queenie Elizabeth. Queenie Elizabeth, the last surviving sibling, talked with “Ben” daily until he was called to his heavenly home. Benjamin Jacob departed his life on June 30, 2023.

Ben was a faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and served for years as a deacon and choir member.  He was also an active Mason for 50 years.

Growing up on the Bedgood and Sims farms he (along with his siblings) learned to help take care of the farm animals, pick cotton, gather peanuts, beans, corn, and cut sugar cane.  

Affectionately known as “BJ” in school, BJ’s early education
including Bethlehem, Brayboy, and Greenville Training schools.  He continued his education at Alabama State University, receiving a degree in History, and minor in Sociology.  After college, he secured a job as a driving education instructor and later, as an
insurance agent for Atlanta Life Insurance for a number of years.
As years passed, “BJ” engrossed himself more in helping on the farm and handling real estate affairs for property owned by his family.
He often referred to himself as a “Business Man” and apprised
himself as such until his death.

Affectionately known as “Ben” by the family, he will always be remembered by special family and friends: Queenie Elizabeth Sims, Deetra Sims Wiley (Derell), Shirlette Sims Labranche,  Tarmece (Henry) Jones, Ian Jones, Debra Jackson, Don Owens, Espenora (Deborah) Carter,  Irince Allen, Anthony Tillery, David Bedgood, and a host of relatives and friends from near and afar.

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