Marla Jean Sims Anderson, also affectionately known as "Neenie" or "Beanie", 74, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, at home. Born on August 14, 1951, in Houston, Texas, Marla was the beloved daughter of H.C. "Bud" Sims and LaVerne Sims, sister to Becky McCrellis, and mother to Kenneth and James Hall.
Marla grew up in Houston and graduated from Spring Branch High School in 1969. Her childhood was filled with adventure and cherished family moments. She often reminisced about family trips to Marble Falls, Texas, where they enjoyed skiing and created lasting memories together. Other favorite family stories include when Marla was about two, she fell off the bed and broke her collarbone, and at about age 8, Marla and some neighborhood children were playing baseball in the backyard with a wooden croquet ball. For some reason, Marla threw the ball hitting her sister Becky giving her a black eye. Despite these early human mishaps, Marla’s love for animals was evident throughout her life; she even cared for an orphaned deer at one point, a testament to her kind and nurturing spirit.
Marla's life was enriched by her deep love for her family. She is survived by her sister Becky McCrellis; her sons Kenneth Hall and James Hall along with their families; her beloved cat Florence; and her niece Tracie Thompson and her family. She was predeceased by her parents, Bud and LaVerne Sims, as well as her ex-husband Craig Anderson.
Marla will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery near her mother and father, a fitting place of peace surrounded by those she loved most.
Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. A Funeral Service will be held on July 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Waltrip Funeral Directors 1415 Campbell Road, Houston, Texas, Rev. Rick Minett, officiating. Visitation will be held July 30, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. Burial at graveside in Woodlawn Garden of Memories 1101 Antoine Drive, Houston, Texas 77055, immediately after services.
