Lena Mae Sims

LENA MAE SIMS 

July 24, 1936 – October 28, 2020

Mrs. Lena Mae Galberth Sims departed this earthly life October 28, 2020. She was born on July 24, 1936 in Hampton, LA. She attended Oak Grove School in Nevada County, Rosston, AR. She excelled in her class work and was a member of the basketball team. After she graduated in 1952, she relocated to Rockford, IL to further her education. Because of her love of education, she enrolled in Rockford Business College, where she attained her degree in the clerical field. She was employed by the Rockford Board of Education, District #205 as secretary. Later, she took music lessons from Ms. Ann Klines and at Rock Valley College. On, March 17, 1963, she married Charles Sims. When he was called to pastor Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, Lena became the First Lady of PMBC. She was also secretary, Sunday School teacher and the musician of Charlie’s Angel Choir. After Rev. Sims retired her from her job, she became a faithful member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America. She also became a member of Princess Zorah No. 20 0E5, State of IL, PHA. She also joined the Ministers Wives and Widows. Mrs. Sims loved to read her bible and her favorite scriptures were Psalm 37 and Psalm 23. She loved to sew, sing and play her piano.

She leaves to cherish children: Winston B. Galberth, Shirley A. Tidwell. Rev. Sims and Mrs. Sims raised six of his nephews and nieces: Vanessa Lewis of Rockford, IL, Stanley Sims of Fayetteville, N.C., Terry Sims (Penny) of Phoenix, AZ, Timothy Williams of Rockford, IL. Grandchildren: Quanda Tidwell, Christina Galberth, Latasha Purifoy, Marcus Purifoy; Great grandchildren: Anaya CheronShirlena Griffin, Marquez Fort, Neveah Easter Purifoy, Marcus Purifoy Jr., Nadia Rosado Purifoy, Niara Frazer; Godchildren: Shonn Hinton, Cheree Smith, Avaya Avington; Sisters: JoannWooden of Texas, Merlin Love of Rockford, IL; host of nieces and nephews. Special Friends: Loreace Burse, Stella Williams, Norah Coleman and Dustin Whyte.  

Predeceased by her loving husband Rev. Charles Sims; parents Willie and Leeaner Galberth;Grandparents Rev. Tommie and Mrs. Lena Thomas; Brothers: Thomas Ray Sanders(Doris), Willie Galberth; nephews: Charles Jordan, Dwayne Sims; niece Sandretta Sims; Godchild Diane Torrance; special friend Anita Griffin. 

The Family would like to thank everyone for the love and support shown to us during the loss of our loved one. A Special Thanks to the staff at River Bluff Nursing home. The funeral is limited to close family and friends. Masks are required. Thank you.

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