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Charles T. Simms, Sr., died Thursday, May 1, 2008, in Albuquerque, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Tularosa, NM, on February 27, 1924 to Donald and Lucille Simms. He is survived by his loving wife of over 63 years, Ruth; his son, Charles T. (Tom) Simms, Jr., D.D.S. and wife, Mary Lou, Tom's children, Tom and Jennifer and their mother, Sharron Pulliam; son, Steven R. Simms and wife, Gail and their son, Jason; son, John P. Simms and wife, Alice and their children, John Brian and his wife, Ana and Jeffrey; daughter, Mary E. Slemp and husband, Larry and their children, Melissa and Matthew; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth Ann (Betty) King; brother, Donald C. Simms, Jr. and his dear friend and hunting and fishing buddy, Jack Nieman. Charles grew up in Tularosa, where he was a standout tennis and basketball player in high school and worked in his father's drug store. He was awarded a Bronze Star for his proud service to his country in the Army during World War II and Korea. He was part of the first graduating class from the University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy in 1949. After the war he and his father opened and operated Simms Drug Store in Albuquerque's North Valley until 1975. He later opened and operated Simms Drug Store in Rio Rancho. He finished his career as a pharmacist working for Smith's in his beloved North Valley until 1987. He was very proud of the many years of compassionate and caring service he provided to his customers, many of whom he considered to be his friends. He was also very proud of his children and grandchildren. He was an avid and skillful fly-fisherman and hunter. He loved reminiscing about his many fishing and hunting adventures with family and friends and, with a twinkle in his eye, teasing everyone around him. A very important part of his life was his 55-year membership, love and support of Harwood United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir, taught Sunday school and, on occasion, would deliver the Sunday message. Memorial services will be held Monday, May 5, 2008, 11:00 a.m., at Harwood United Methodist Church, 420 San Lorenzo, NW. Private interment of his cremated remains will take place on a later date at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory to Harwood United Methodist Church, 420 San Lorenzo, NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107. French Mortuary 1111 University Blvd. NE (505) 843-6333 www.frenchmortuary.com
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