John David Sims

John David Sims, 69, of Lufkin, was born March 16, 1943 in Lufkin, Texas, the son of the late Lois Elizabeth (Oates) and J. B. (Jake) Sims. He went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, January 8, 2013.

During his younger years, the family lived briefly in San Augustine and Corsicana, Texas. John graduated from Lufkin High School in 1961 and attended Stephen F. Austin State University. He served in the United States Army, stationed at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas and ENT Air Force Base, Colorado Spring, Colorado, which is now the U. S. Olympic Training Center. He was commissioned an Army second lieutenant on graduation from the Armor Office Candidate School at Ft. Knox, Kentucky.

Prior to his military service, John worked for D. H. Walker Grocery Store, where he learned to butcher. He also worked for the Texas Highway Department, Cedar Springs Chrysler-Plymouth in Dallas, and as co-owner and assistant manager of Simca Center in Lufkin. He spent the majority of his career as owner of Sims Construction Company and made many friends and acquaintances in his business.

John enjoyed his family and loved his work. He never met a stranger and loved to talk and visit with friends. His grandchildren were the apples of his eye. He was generous to a fault and forgave debts left unpaid.

He is survived by his wife Betty; daughter and family, Pam and Dr. Jeff Watson of San Augustine, Melissa, Corey and Seth Land of Georgia; son and his wife, Greg and Rhonda Sims of Lufkin; brothers, Joe B. and wife Delora Sims of Lufkin, Larry and wife Sheryl Sims of Longview, Tim Sims of Nacogdoches; and sister, Charon and husband Mike Perry of Lufkin.

John was preceded in death by his father and mother, J. B. and Lois Sims; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Clyde and Lucille Hall; brother-in-law, Bobby Hall; and sister-in-law, Annette (Cloudy) Sims.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 11, 2013 at Gipson Funeral Home.

Condolences may be offered at www.gipsonfuneralhome.com

Services have been placed in the trust of Gipson Funeral Home