Stephen Franklin Simms

on September 17, 2024, at his home in Birmingham, Alabama, at the age of 53. Born on November 16, 1970 in Mobile, Alabama, Steve was a person of remarkable spirit and resilience. He was known for his sarcasm, intelligence, humor and immense kindness.

Music was the soundtrack to Steve’s life. He discovered his love for music at an early age and was often heard singing while listening to music through his headphones. He grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma and attended Jenks High School where he proudly made the tennis team. Steve pursued higher education at Northeastern State University, University of Oklahoma, and Middle Tennessee State University. As a student his love for music continued to grow and he found his calling as a sound engineer. Steve was happiest when traveling across the country experiencing his favorite bands. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed the serenity of being on the water waiting for the next fish to bite, accompanied by his well loved boxer, Maggie. Watching football was his favorite pastime, especially Auburn and the Tennessee Titans.

As a long term survivor of childhood cancer, Steve said his guardian angel wore a hard hat. Steve met his many health challenges with great courage and an amazing ability to overcome adversity, always looking forward with hope. He never gave up.

Steve is survived by his mother Terry Bowen (Paul), his father Frank Simms (Francis), his sister Susan Simms Maxey and his namesake nephew Stephen Philip Maxey, aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as lifelong friends who all shared in his journey. He is preceded in death by grandparents Ernest and Bernice Simms and Pete and Frieda Peerson.

A small gathering to celebrate Steve’s life will be announced soon, offering friends and family a chance to honor his memory and the impact he had on their lives. Steve’s legacy of kindness, bravery, and a spirited sense of humor will be remembered by all who had the pleasure to know him.

Services are under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel (205.879.3401) in Homewood.