Lee Sims, Jr., 76, of Greenville, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 21, 2023. Born in Monroe, LA, he was the son of the late Maude Owens Sims and Lenward Lee Sims, Sr. Lee worked for 30 years as the Director of the Greenville Zoo and later under the Trump Administration as theContinue Reading
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Buzz Bearden
left a message on June 16, 2023:
I miss you buddy. You were a wonderful friend for over 40 yrs. We will meet again I know that. Will read a good book and discuss it then play a round of golf. Such great memories was a joy to know you Lee.
Melissa Stallings
left a message on February 27, 2023:
Leigh Ann,
I am holding you in my heart as you try to navigate this grief. Praying you will feel held and loved through it all. You loved him so well, and I know he loved you so much!
Love, Melissa
Jean Calbetzor
left a message on February 27, 2023:
I have very fond memories of Lee from the City of Greenville. Every time I would see him he would leave me laughing! He also took me and my family behind the scenes at the zoo. He had such a beautiful soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tony Pannell
left a message on February 26, 2023:
To the Family of Lee Sims,
I worked with Lee at the City of Greenville. We had many laughs, and I really enjoyed our teasing of each other. My heart is saddened for you at your lose. I did not know that he had passed, or I would have been at the service. May the Holy Spirit comfort your hearts at this time. Lee was loved and respected by many of his friends at the City of Greenville. God Bless.
Tony Pannell
Barbara Scott-Cannon
left a message on February 26, 2023:
Lee and I worked together many years ago at the Greenville Zoo sharing a love of animals. We reconnected and spent hours swapping stories about our travels, adventures while on safaris, and the political roads we traveled. He was a good friend to many, an outrageous lover of sweets and Cajun cuisine, and a loving father and grandfather, He will be missed, but he left behind an incredible legacy…RIP my friend.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ed and Cathy Yonkers
left a message on February 25, 2023:
We loved Lee, and we revered him. He had the brightest mind and the best dry sense of humor ever. As we go through life, we pick up on some of the greatest miracles in our lives—if we keep our eyes and hearts open. Thank goodness we had the sense to embrace this man—a true friend to another great miracle who came into our lives, Buzz Bearden, Many rounds of golf were played and enjoyed—the 3 Musketeers, Buzz, Lee, and Ed. And even though we lived in Florida, we visited SC often to be with our daughter’s family, and so Ed could be with his buddies. We will always remember Lee’s light, a man who never let a word unsaid that needed to be said. God bless Cowboy and his wife for giving us this opportunity to say goodbye via Livestream. Lee would be so proud of his “son.” The service was wonderful.❤️❤️❤️
Jackie Ramey
left a message on February 25, 2023:
In memory of Lee Sims, Jr., Jackie Ramey lit a candle
George and Ara Radler
left a message on February 25, 2023:
We are so sorry for your loss and we mourn with you. May the Lord Jesus grant you His peace during this time, a peace that passes all human understanding. May you feel His comfort.
Steven Campbell
left a message on February 25, 2023:
I had the privilege and pleasure of cutting Lees hair for many years and always booked extra time because I enjoyed his company and stories. Lee had so many stories to tell but he wasn't just telling stories. He was sharing his life and adventures. I told him while he was in hospice he should write a book about them. Maybe he would have but I think he knew his time was too short. I feel privileged to have been his friend and will miss our conversations. Lee was a remarkable man. Rest in peace my friend. I'll see you when I get there. Gods peace, Steve.
Kathleen Jennings
left a message on February 25, 2023:
Watching live stream and sending prayers as recovering from surgery. Deep sympathy in this sad passing. I’ll work on getting street at zoo named in honor of this great guy, Lee. Everyone supports it RIP, Sir. You made a difference.
Krystal Ryan
left a message on February 25, 2023:
My condolences to family and friends. Knew Lee for several years, great guy.
Amanda Snipe
left a message on February 24, 2023:
When I met Mr. Lee, I knew I had met an admirable man because of the countless stories his daughter, Leigh Ann, has shared with me. It is evident that he was a loving and caring father and grandfather. Fortunately, he passed on to Leigh Ann his wit, love of books, and genuine heart which bring me so much joy. I am forever grateful for Mr. Lee giving me a dear, dear friend.
Edward Carter
left a message on February 24, 2023:
I met Lee the first time I participated as a driver in the motorcade of Donald Trump, campaigning in Kenansville, NC Sept 2016. I was in a bit of a panic when I finally arrived at the car rental facility having not yet changed into my attire when I was approached by Lee. Being completely unfamiliar w/the process of the days event, I thought Lee, w/his distinguished look, dressed in his coat and tie was an agent of the Secret Service. I just knew I had it coming to me for cutting the time so close and not yet being dressed but was soon relieved w/Lee's humor as I learned he was my counterpart for the day. What a relief.
I remember Lee mostly for his humor that he added to the conversations we had together. He had a way of seeing a lighter, comical side no matter the subject.
He would read to pass the time during the Trump events we waited outside for and acknowledged to me that he too should photograph more of the historical events to which we were a part of.
He later shared photos w/me of the numerous events he participated in after that.
We stayed in touch for awhile after that sharing our opinions mostly along lines of politics.
It would have been nice to know Lee more. I'll never forget him and how we met.
Edward Carter
Fayetteville, NC
Sandy Smith
left a message on February 24, 2023:
Well, buddy, you will now be provided all of the gourmet cookies that you want and see all the animals that you love. I have loved being your pal.
Kathleen Jennings
left a message on February 23, 2023:
I am astonished and deeply saddened to read of Lee’s passing. I have known Lee for decades from community events and he was one of the finest fellows I ever knew. We shared the same birthday and I wrote him just this past birthday. He responded. And just a week or two ago to get Lucinda Lion’s address. I cry with this sad news. Deepest sympathy to his family and many friends. I had surgery today but will honor him. He made a difference in our lives. RIP, you champion of animals and of good will. A gentleman by any definition
left a message:
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Buzz Bearden
left a message on June 16, 2023:
I miss you buddy. You were a wonderful friend for over 40 yrs. We will meet again I know that. Will read a good book and discuss it then play a round of golf. Such great memories was a joy to know you Lee.
Melissa Stallings
left a message on February 27, 2023:
Leigh Ann,
I am holding you in my heart as you try to navigate this grief. Praying you will feel held and loved through it all. You loved him so well, and I know he loved you so much!
Love, Melissa
Jean Calbetzor
left a message on February 27, 2023:
I have very fond memories of Lee from the City of Greenville. Every time I would see him he would leave me laughing! He also took me and my family behind the scenes at the zoo. He had such a beautiful soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tony Pannell
left a message on February 26, 2023:
To the Family of Lee Sims,
I worked with Lee at the City of Greenville. We had many laughs, and I really enjoyed our teasing of each other. My heart is saddened for you at your lose. I did not know that he had passed, or I would have been at the service. May the Holy Spirit comfort your hearts at this time. Lee was loved and respected by many of his friends at the City of Greenville. God Bless.
Tony Pannell
Barbara Scott-Cannon
left a message on February 26, 2023:
Lee and I worked together many years ago at the Greenville Zoo sharing a love of animals. We reconnected and spent hours swapping stories about our travels, adventures while on safaris, and the political roads we traveled. He was a good friend to many, an outrageous lover of sweets and Cajun cuisine, and a loving father and grandfather, He will be missed, but he left behind an incredible legacy…RIP my friend.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ed and Cathy Yonkers
left a message on February 25, 2023:
We loved Lee, and we revered him. He had the brightest mind and the best dry sense of humor ever. As we go through life, we pick up on some of the greatest miracles in our lives—if we keep our eyes and hearts open. Thank goodness we had the sense to embrace this man—a true friend to another great miracle who came into our lives, Buzz Bearden, Many rounds of golf were played and enjoyed—the 3 Musketeers, Buzz, Lee, and Ed. And even though we lived in Florida, we visited SC often to be with our daughter’s family, and so Ed could be with his buddies. We will always remember Lee’s light, a man who never let a word unsaid that needed to be said. God bless Cowboy and his wife for giving us this opportunity to say goodbye via Livestream. Lee would be so proud of his “son.” The service was wonderful.❤️❤️❤️
Jackie Ramey
left a message on February 25, 2023:
In memory of Lee Sims, Jr., Jackie Ramey lit a candle
George and Ara Radler
left a message on February 25, 2023:
We are so sorry for your loss and we mourn with you. May the Lord Jesus grant you His peace during this time, a peace that passes all human understanding. May you feel His comfort.
Steven Campbell
left a message on February 25, 2023:
I had the privilege and pleasure of cutting Lees hair for many years and always booked extra time because I enjoyed his company and stories. Lee had so many stories to tell but he wasn't just telling stories. He was sharing his life and adventures. I told him while he was in hospice he should write a book about them. Maybe he would have but I think he knew his time was too short. I feel privileged to have been his friend and will miss our conversations. Lee was a remarkable man. Rest in peace my friend. I'll see you when I get there. Gods peace, Steve.
Kathleen Jennings
left a message on February 25, 2023:
Watching live stream and sending prayers as recovering from surgery. Deep sympathy in this sad passing. I’ll work on getting street at zoo named in honor of this great guy, Lee. Everyone supports it RIP, Sir. You made a difference.
Krystal Ryan
left a message on February 25, 2023:
My condolences to family and friends. Knew Lee for several years, great guy.
Amanda Snipe
left a message on February 24, 2023:
When I met Mr. Lee, I knew I had met an admirable man because of the countless stories his daughter, Leigh Ann, has shared with me. It is evident that he was a loving and caring father and grandfather. Fortunately, he passed on to Leigh Ann his wit, love of books, and genuine heart which bring me so much joy. I am forever grateful for Mr. Lee giving me a dear, dear friend.
Edward Carter
left a message on February 24, 2023:
I met Lee the first time I participated as a driver in the motorcade of Donald Trump, campaigning in Kenansville, NC Sept 2016. I was in a bit of a panic when I finally arrived at the car rental facility having not yet changed into my attire when I was approached by Lee. Being completely unfamiliar w/the process of the days event, I thought Lee, w/his distinguished look, dressed in his coat and tie was an agent of the Secret Service. I just knew I had it coming to me for cutting the time so close and not yet being dressed but was soon relieved w/Lee's humor as I learned he was my counterpart for the day. What a relief.
I remember Lee mostly for his humor that he added to the conversations we had together. He had a way of seeing a lighter, comical side no matter the subject.
He would read to pass the time during the Trump events we waited outside for and acknowledged to me that he too should photograph more of the historical events to which we were a part of.
He later shared photos w/me of the numerous events he participated in after that.
We stayed in touch for awhile after that sharing our opinions mostly along lines of politics.
It would have been nice to know Lee more. I'll never forget him and how we met.
Edward Carter
Fayetteville, NC
Sandy Smith
left a message on February 24, 2023:
Well, buddy, you will now be provided all of the gourmet cookies that you want and see all the animals that you love. I have loved being your pal.
Kathleen Jennings
left a message on February 23, 2023:
I am astonished and deeply saddened to read of Lee’s passing. I have known Lee for decades from community events and he was one of the finest fellows I ever knew. We shared the same birthday and I wrote him just this past birthday. He responded. And just a week or two ago to get Lucinda Lion’s address. I cry with this sad news. Deepest sympathy to his family and many friends. I had surgery today but will honor him. He made a difference in our lives. RIP, you champion of animals and of good will. A gentleman by any definition
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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