Larry Paul Sims' Obituary
Larry Paul Sims, 78, of Bynum, Alabama, passed away on July 16, 2025, after a brief illness. Born on November 13, 1946, in Talladega, Larry lived a life as full of curiosity, adventure, and passion as one man could hope to live.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Camellia Sims, who fondly shares, “Life with him was never dull.” Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to their growing family. Larry was a proud father to three daughters: Nona Morris (Michael), Sonya Bedford (Tony), and Tina Waldrop (Todd). His legacy continues through 11 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by two sisters, Martha Lynn Ham (JD) and Cathy Kimbro (Donnie). He was preceded in death by his parents, Martha and “Bud” Sims.
Larry was a man of many pursuits, driven by a boundless curiosity and a relentless desire to try something new. He wore many hats throughout his life — registered nurse, real estate agent and broker, home builder, newspaper editor for The Tribune, political commentator and publisher of Eye on Montgomery, professor of political science at Southern Union in Wadley, and State Representative for District 35 from 1994 to 1998. He was also a delegate to several Republican conventions, always eager to engage in the political process with both enthusiasm and conviction.
Education was important to Larry. He held a bachelor’s degree in nursing and two master’s degrees from Jacksonville State University. As a political science professor, he inspired students to think critically and engage with the world around them.
Larry’s interests were as wide as his resume: fishing, raising worms, jewelry making, rock tumbling, culinary experiments, and lively political discussions. His love of animals was evident—he once rescued a chicken from the side of the road after it fell from a poultry truck, and he proudly hosted a birthday party for one of his beloved dogs. He was always dreaming, always creating, and always up for something unexpected. He enjoyed fishing, especially when he could leave the cleaning to his sons-in-law.
Spiritually, Larry was a man of deep faith. He was saved at Antioch Baptist Church in Bynum and baptized at the fish hatchery in Eastaboga—a fitting tribute for a man who loved nature and lived life with heartfelt authenticity. He was most recently a member of New Haven Baptist Church.
Larry put his faith into action in meaningful and tangible ways, most notably through his involvement in medical mission trips to Mexico. With his background in nursing and a heart for service, he used his skills to provide care to those in need, offering both physical healing and spiritual encouragement. These trips were a reflection of Larry’s belief that faith is not just something you hold—it’s something you live. His willingness to travel, serve, and connect with people from all walks of life was a true testament to the compassion and generosity that defined him.
Larry never shied away from being himself. He didn’t change to fit in or follow trends. He was passionate and focused on the things he cared about, and nothing brought him greater joy than his grandbabies. They were the true treasures of his life.
Larry Paul Sims was a one-of-a-kind man who touched countless lives with his humor, wisdom, and fearless approach to living. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service to honor Larry’s life will held in the sanctuary of New Haven Baptist Church, 100 New Haven Rd. in Anniston, on Sunday, July 20, 2025. Visitation at 1:00 pm. Service at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by doing something he would love—try something new, adopt an animal, cook something adventurous, or spend time with your family
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