Mr. Gary Keith Sims' Obituary
Let us gather together to honor and remember the remarkable life of Gary Keith Sims. Gary was born at home on July 13, 1943, in Montague County, Texas and passed away peacefully at his home on November 2, 2024. Gary was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished brother, and a loyal friend.
Gary’s journey began in the heart of Texas, where he was raised by his loving parents (deceased), Fannie Lucinda Sims and David Samuel Sims. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University (formerly Decatur Baptist University), setting the stage for a life dedicated to hard work and service. Gary’s career in the food industry spanned over nearly 60 years beginning in the family-owned Dairy Queen in Haltom City with his parents and brothers. It was there he learned the value of dedication and community. His years with Kentucky Fried Chicken Corporation lead to General Manager/partner of KFC restaurants with some former Dallas Cowboys players to 30 years of work and travel with Whataburger Corporation as a Franchisee Consultant. These were not just jobs; they were a testament to his commitment to excellence and his passion for making people smile through great food and service. Gary retired 5 years ago which allowed him many fun trips shared with his brothers (and mom).
Family was everything to Gary. He and Pam celebrated 43 years of marriage, filled with many memories, support and love for one another. As a father, “Dadlio” was deeply proud and so loved both of his boys – Brian and Kyle. His warmth and kindness extended to his brothers Mike, Dan and wife, Vicki and Jim (deceased), along with his mother-in-law, Lois Hodges and Diana Hodges (SIL) and the entire extended family, creating bonds that will endure even in his absence.
Gary was a man of many interests. He loved history and spent hours immersed in his hobby of building World War II models. He was an avid runner all of his life, embracing an active lifestyle, enjoyed fishing/hunting and loved spending time with his family at the beach or lake. His love for the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Longhorns was well-known. Along with football season, music and late-night movies with popcorn were also a passion. However, a ride in his Red-Rocket Corvette gave him a source of pride and joy. His favorite time of the year was always Christmas with his family.
What stood out most about Gary was his unwavering faith in God. He was a man of great integrity. His nieces and nephews will always remember looking for T-Rex on his model display and his beloved impersonation of Donald Duck and how it brought giggles to every room.
As we say our goodbyes, let us remember Gary not just for his many accomplishments, but for the love he shared, the memories he created, and the laughter that will forever echo in our hearts. May we honor him by cherishing our own families and by living our lives with the same kindness and dedication that he exemplified every day in his Christian life.
Thank you, Gary, for the love and joy you brought into our lives. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will continue to inspire us all.
Celebration of Life Service will be on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at The Heights Baptist Church, 201 W Renner Road, Richardson, TX 75080. Visitation with family is from 10:00am to 10:30am and service starts at 11:00am-12:00 noon.
Memorial Donations in Gary's honor can be made to;
The Heights Missions for Operation Christmas Child at theheights.org/give (Choose Community Ministry Designated. If giving online, please email Holly Lieou at hlieou@theheights.org to let her know to apply this donation to Operation Christmas Child.) You may also write a check to The Heights Church(Designate “Operation Christmas Child” in the memo line)
What’s your fondest memory of Gary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gary?
Share a story where Gary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gary you’ll never forget.
How did Gary make you smile?