James Walla Sims II

Posted on October 7, 2026

James Walla Sims II, known to all simply as Jim, passed away peacefully on Oct. 5, 2026, with his family and friends surrounding him.

Born on June 6, 1949, he was the beloved son of the late James W. Sims and Opal Sims.

Jim proudly served his country as a Marine Corps veteran, stationed from 1967 to 1969. Though he was not in direct combat, he carried out vital support duties for his fellow Marines during their times of need and distress.

His service reflected the quiet strength, loyalty and dedication that would define him throughout his life.

After returning home, Jim worked on big rigs down south before eventually settling in Perry many years ago.

He worked for his father-in-law before joining Procter & Gamble, and later Buckeye, where he spent many committed years until his retirement in 2016.

Retirement gave Jim the role he cherished most: being a full-time Papa (Dad).

He raised three wonderful grandchildren, whom he loved as deeply and fiercely as his own children. They were his world, and he poured his heart into giving them guidance, stability and unconditional love.

Jim lived life with passion and routine, especially when it came to the things he enjoyed.

He loved NASCAR racing, and attending races was one of his greatest thrills. During racing season, Saturdays and Sundays were sacred – no one touched the TV unless they planned to watch the race right along with him.

He also enjoyed cheering on FSU, but his true guilty pleasure was his beloved soap operas, especially The Young and the Restless. Everything in the house ran on “soap time.” Once the episode ended, he’d carry on with his day – whether it was yard work, heading to town or simply enjoying the quiet moments of home.

Jim was preceded in death by: his parents, James and Opal Sims; the first love of his life, Joan (Bowden) Sims; his sister, Louis Sims West; his brother-in-law, Chuck Dillaman; and his father-in-law, Bob Thomas.

He is survived by: his best friend of 30 years, Lisa Sims; his children, Amber Cannon and Jesika Cannon (Donnie); and the grandchildren who brought him endless joy: Hannah Slaughter, Payton Slaughter, Aleesa Blake Slaughter (his “favorite,” as he lovingly teased) and the youngest of the bunch, Lily Cook.

Jim is also survived by: his mother-in-law, Shirley Thomas; sister, Susan Poitivent; brothers-in-law, Danny Bayes (Sarah), Michael Bayes (Amy) and Robert Thomas; his sister, Karen Dillaman; his brother-in-law, Ralph West; nephew, Ronny Shears (Jackie); niece, Shelly Zambo (Scott); and great-nieces, Meagan Del Marmol (Daniel) and Brianna Cartaya; and many others.

And, of course, his loyal dog, Bambi Sims, who stayed faithfully by his side and brought him comfort every day.

Jim’s final journey was made peaceful and dignified thanks to the extraordinary care of Big Bend Hospice and an amazing team at Doctors’ Memorial Hospital (DMH): Tonya Driver, Mrs. Kiki, Sharon, Angie and CNAs Missy Lewis, Terra, Brittany and many others, who stood by him with compassion, dedication and genuine love…their presence meant the world to Jim and to the family who witnessed their kindness.

Jim’s life was defined by loyalty, humor, deep love and the kind of steady presence that made everyone around him feel grounded and cared for. He will be remembered for his devotion to family, his strict rules, his service to others and the way he made every person feel; he did not sugar coat things – you got it like he thought it.

Jim’s family takes comfort in knowing he is now at peace, surrounded by the love of those who went before him.

May his memory be a blessing and may the love he gave continue to guide those he leaves behind.

Jim’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to everyone who supported them during this time.

His life was filled with love, laughter and devotion – and he gave all of himself to the people he cared for. They will forever remember his steady presence, his humor, his routines, his stories and his loyalty…his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life service will be at a later date.

Friends may sign the online guest book at joepburnsfuneralhomes.com.