Derrell Sims

James (Derrell) Sims, 35 of Fort Sumner died unexpectedly Friday, October 26, 2007 at his home in Fort Sumner. Derrell was born February 27, 1972 the son of Jim and Judy (Marchman) Sims. Derrell was raised in Fort Sumner and attended Fort Sumner schools. He participated in Fox football and basketball and graduated in 1990. While in school and following graduation, Derrell worked with his father at Jim Sims Trucking. Together they hauled “a lot of feed” to area ranchers. He was a self taught welder and began his own business Sims Welding Service. He worked in Van Alstyne, TX for several years before returning to Fort Sumner in 2004 where he established his business. Derrell was a hard worker who took pride in his work. He loved spending time with his family and friends and especially enjoyed hosting cookouts. Derrell also enjoyed traveling around the state on his Harley Davidson motorcycle and taking day trips with his friends. Derrell was a member of the First Baptist Church. He studied and read his Bible daily. He was preceded in death by his mother Judy Sims on July 5, 2007. Derrell was a loving son, brother, uncle and friend and will be missed by his father Jim Sims of Fort Sumner; two sisters Meredith D’Ann Cleaver and husband James; Cathleen Gonzales and husband Paul all of Clovis; three nephews Cooper Cleaver, Jaron Gonzales, Anthony Gonzales a niece Jerrica Gonzales; three aunts Eloise Borden and husband Roy Lee of Clovis; Dana Hester and husband Mike, Michelle Jones and husband Kevin all of Grandbury, TX along with other relatives and many friends. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, October 30, 2007 from the First Baptist Church in Fort Sumner with Rev. Coy Brewer officiating. Burial will follow in the Sims family plot, Fort Sumner Cemetery.Pallbearers will be Keith Marshall, Paul Webb, Donovan Ulibarri, Billy Rodriguez, Joe Don Cortese, Clifford Kenyon, Dana Moyer and Erick Props. Arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 804 N. Fifth Street; Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (505) 355-2311. To place an online tribute or sign the guest register please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com