James M. Sims, M.D.

James M. Sims, M.D. , 88, of Sherwood, AR passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2024.  He was born July 29, 1935 in Searcy Ark. to Alfred O. And Opal Garrison Sims.  

They, along with his sister, Loretta Sims Reed, preceded him in death. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Barbara Hutson Sims; his children: Sherry (John) Carter, Eric Sims, Darren Etchison, Shanda (Johnny) Fortson, Wendy Etchison and Jason Sims.  His grandchildren Jared Schnebelen, Kyle (Anna) Schnebelen, Justin (Lindsay) Fortson, Kerri Fortson, Michael (Monica) Carter, John (Vanessa) Carter; and great grandchildren: Wyatt and Avery Fortson, Calliope and Olivia Carter, McKenzie and Cannon Carter and Henry Schnebelen.  He also leaves behind many cherished family members and friends. 

After attending Hendrix College and graduating from UAMS in 1961, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. In addition to his stateside assignments, he had the opportunity to travel to Guam, Japan, China and the Philippines.  After a decade, he returned to Arkansas to pursue a Psychiatric  Residency, then began his 40 year career as a Psychiatrist in NLR.  Jim loved playing games while eating pizza with family and friends, bowling, playing pool, being at the lake house, boating and taking care of his dogs.  Additionally, he was a talented painter and was a skilled woodworker, working long hours in his workshop to finish his special projects.  Jim dedicated his life  in service to others: his patients, as a 30 plus Sherwood Rotary Club member, as a boy scout in his younger years and especially to his family.

 A drop-in visitation will be held Saturday, June 8, 2024 from 9-11 a.m. at Smith Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street, North Little Rock. He will be buried Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 10:00 am at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Avenue in Sherwood.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Baptist Health Hospice who provided exceptional care to him in his final days.