John Dorian Simms
May 23, 1935 – April 10, 2025

Psalm 1:1–2
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night.

With profound love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Dorian Simms, who entered eternal rest on April 10, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by the warmth and love of his wife of 69 years, Bertha, and their children and grandchildren.

Born on May 23, 1935, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, John was the cherished son of Robert S. Simms and Elizabeth "Bessie" Hollis Simms. A proud graduate of Langston High School, Class of 1953, he carried his education and values with him throughout his life—marked by integrity, discipline, and quiet strength.

John devoted more than 30 years of his professional life to faithful service with Entergy Corporation (formerly Arkansas Power & Light), Ouachita/AMI Hospital, and the United States Army Reserve, where he earned the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). He took deep pride in his work and was respected by all who had the pleasure of working alongside him. Whether in uniform, on the job, or in the community, John was steady, dependable, and loyal to every commitment he made.

A man of deep and abiding faith, John was a lifelong member of Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. His service to the church was tireless and joy-filled, having held many trusted roles—Deacon, Trustee, member of the Finance and Budget Committee, Sunday School teacher, Building Fund Committee member, and more. He served not just in position, but in spirit, living out the love of Christ through every thoughtful word and act of kindness. Two of his most cherished hymns were "In the Garden" and "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," both of which brought him peace, strength, and reflection throughout his journey.

His devotion to service extended far beyond the church walls. John was a dedicated community servant, contributing his time and wisdom to numerous organizations including the Hot Springs Board of Zoning Adjustment and Appeals, the Arkansas Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America, Community Service Office, Inc., the Hot Springs Code Revision Committee, the Entergy Retirement Silver Card Club, Company A 489 Retirement Club, Langston Alumni Executive Board, and the Webb Community Center Board. His passion for uplifting others, especially in underserved areas, never wavered.

John's heart was anchored in family. He shared 69 beautiful years of marriage with the love of his life, Bertha L. Jackson Simms. Together they raised a loving family rooted in faith, tradition, and unity. He is survived by his children: Stephen C. Simms, Teresa L. McGraw (Willie), and Stephanie K. Simms; his treasured sister-in-law, Peggy Johnson; his grandchildren: Stephen B. Simms (Kiley), Jonathan M. Simms (Jasmine), Tiffany L. McGraw, Tia L. McGraw, and Jeremy R. Blackmon; and great-grandchildren: C. Anderson Simms, Amiyah A. Simms, Landrie E. Simms, Langston F. Simms, Kennedy K. Simms, a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends..

He was reunited in eternity with his beloved daughter Cynthia Simms; his parents Robert S. and Elizabeth "Bessie" Simms; sister Rev. Bobbie Collins; and brothers Thomas Cooper, Fred Cooper, Rufus Simms, and Daniel Simms.

John Dorian Simms leaves behind a legacy of deep faith, steadfast service, and boundless love. He was quiet, wise, patient, and full of grace. His life was a blessing to all who knew him. His memory will be a guiding light, and his spirit will live on through the many lives he touched.

A funeral service to honor John's life will be held on Saturday, April 19th at 11:00 AM at Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. The service will include two of his favorite hymns, "In the Garden" and "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," as a tribute to the faith that carried him through life. The family welcomes all who loved John to join them in celebrating his extraordinary life. In addition to flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society in his honor.

Obituary submitted by the family of Mr. John Simms

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.