Col. (Ret.) William Richard (Dickie) Sims passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021. Dickie died peacefully with his beloved wife of 35 years, Lisa, and their children by his side. He was 57.
Dickie was born on May 5, 1964, in Montgomery, Alabama. He held a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Auburn University and a Master of Business Administration from Troy University. Dickie was a proud employee of the United Parcel Service (UPS) for 37 years. Aside from his family, Dickie’s greatest devotion was to the military. Serving 33 years from the age of 19, some of his accolades include the Bronze Star medal, Iraq Campaign medal and Defense Meritorious Service medal. He retired at the rank of Colonel in 2016.
Dickie was known for his love of music and was learning to play the guitar. He enjoyed spending time outdoors at his hunting club, riding his tractor, playing with the family animals, working on home projects and cooking. Dickie never met a stranger and would drop anything to help others. He truly exemplified living life to the fullest.
Dickie is survived by his mother Jean Blackmon Sims; his wife Lisa Corley Sims; and his children, Alexandria Sims (Nicholas) Hart, William Corley (Olivia) Sims, Chandler Sims (Krishan) Syal, and Bentley Margaret Sims. He was predeceased by his father, John Frank Sims, and his son, William Richard Sims, Jr.
The funeral service was on Friday, Aug. 6 at First Baptist Church of Opelika. A graveside service was held at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Luverne, Alabama at 3:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Dickie’s lifelong commitment to his country can make donations to the National Military Family Association (NMFA).