Eldred "Gerald" Sims

Eldred Gerald Sims, 89, of Hallsville, MO, passed away at Boone Hospital Center on June 23, 2025, with his family holding his hands. He was a loving husband and amazing dad, who will be immensely missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

He was the youngest of 11 children. Born on September 4, 1935, at home in Riggs, MO, to Warren Elvin and Mary (Forbis) Sims. He married Marylyn Colleen Shern, who he always called “Caroline”, on December 31, 1968. They enjoyed 56 loving years together.

Gerald was hardworking and loved to provide for his family, only wanting the best for them. He worked at Missouri Concrete in Columbia for 20 years before becoming self employed as a truck driver, initially hauling coal. Later, he delivered rock and sand all over Boone County into his 80s and was known for his spreading skills in his red dump truck. He also was a successful farmer for his entire life in northern Boone County, first raising pigs then cattle. He lived a simple, fulfilling life and believed your name is all you have so be honest in all do and say. He was known for his off the cuff teasing and subtle humor.

He is survived by his wife Colleen, daughter Amanda, sister Nina Wilhite, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his “boys” Gracie and Bella, his beloved pets. In addition to his parents, he’s preceded in death by his brothers Leon, Eugene, Richard, Vernon, and Arnold; and sisters Lillian Sims, Delphine Hengstler, Orine Coverdell, and Mary Elva Rowland.

The family would like to thank Dr. Douglas Vogt for all his patience and compassion with Gerald for all these years.

Memorial donations are suggested to Shriners Hospital for Children, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Centralia Church of Christ.

Services will be held on Tuesday, July 1st at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, MO, with visitation at 10 am, funeral service at 12 pm, and burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.