James Clarence Sims Jr

James was born in Laurel, FL in the area known as Mission Valley. To those that knew and loved him, he is known as Sonnyboy, JC, Jim, Sugarbear, or simply Sims.

He was a proud member and salutatorian of the Booker High School class of 1957. He was active in high school, participating in the marching band, the school chorus, and a singing group. He was instrumental in implementing the first yearbook for Booker High School.

In 1964, James was drafted by the United States Army. He served as a Radio Telephone Operator (RTO) for the 1st Calvery Airmobile Division. During his time in service, James was awarded the Purple Heart, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and one overseas service bar. He was honorably discharged in 1970.

James worked many jobs throughout his lifetime in Sarasota County. Most notable he was the first African American supervisor for General Telephone Electric (GTE) – Sarasota Division. After retiring from GTE, he worked for the State of Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services as a produce inspector. Later, he joined the Sarasota County School Board where he worked at McIntosh Middle School as a Campus Security Aide and retired for the last time. During his retirement he served as a member of the Team Success - A School of Excellence board member.

James was very passionate about gardening and golf. James competed in many golf tournaments throughout Florida and out of state, winning numerous awards. He was a member of several golf leagues and took the time to share his passion for golf with any youth that came to him with an interest. He always had a garden and fruit trees in his yard. He grew an interest in growing exotic fruit trees and was also a member of the Laurel Community Garden for many years.

James is preceded by his parents, James Clarence Sims, Sr and Ruby Earthamae Geraldine Wallace Sims, Carol Michelle Jones (daughter), and Jimmy Sims (infant son), Beatrice Sims Beckom (sister), and Willie Sims (brother).

His legacy of service, love, and dedication will forever be cherished by Hope Bonita Sims (daughter), Toni Deshelle Jones (granddaughter), Franklyn Sims (brother), Juanita Whitley (sister) and Sandra Sims Terry (sister), and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

A visitation will be held at Farley Funeral Home in Venice on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from 11:00AM-1:00PM with the service to immediately follow. A graveside service with honors will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM.  Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements.  To send a condolence or memory please visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com.