William "Bill" Laird Simms Sr., Aviation Structural Mechanic Third Class of the United States Navy, 93, was born July 16, 1932, in Gratiot, Ohio to the late Harry and Lulu (Ankrum) Simms. He was called home peacefully on February 14, 2026, at his home.

Following his 1950 graduation from Newark High School, Bill began working at Owens Corning until he enlisted with the United States Navy. He served from March 1951 - March 1955, which included service time during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, Bill returned to his job at Owens Corning and was a charter member of the Mary Ann Township Fire Department, serving as an EMT and fireman for 32 years. Once Bill retired in 1989, he and his family opened Sugartree Square in Wilkins Corner, where they sold propane, baskets and gifts.

In June of 1956 Bill met his life partner, Shirley Mae Hoyt, and they were married on October 6, 1956. Together they lovingly raised 2 children in the home they built with their own hands. Shirley was an avid crafter, and it wasn't too often that you would see Bill with his hands idle. As a fantastic woodworker, Bill always helped Shirley with whatever project she would envision that day. He traveled all over Ohio with her, helping to set up for craft fairs, most notably at the Hartford Fair where they had a booth under the grandstand for 25 years. Bill and Shirley enjoyed traveling and over the years they put many miles on their motorhomes trekking across the U.S.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Bill's family was everything to him. He was always so proud of his family, eager to know how everyone was and what they were up to. Throughout the years, Bill never forgot anything, he was known as the family historian. He created a legacy that spanned across 93 wonderful years.

He is survived by his son, William L. Simms Jr., U.S.  Navy Aviation Electronic Technician Chief Petty Officer, retired (wife, Tessie); daughter, Michele "Shelley" Simms; grandchildren, William L. Simms III, U.S. Navy Command Master Chief, currently deployed, (wife, Darci), Michael "Cody" (Caitlin) Ballinger, Shannon (Alex) Simms, Meaghan (Michael) Lagace; nine great granddaughters; two great grandsons; his cat Ziggy; and numerous nieces, nephews, and many special friends who turned into family.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by the love of his life, Shirley Mae (Hoyt) Simms on September 19, 2024; sister, Helen (Roy) Zahrndt; and brother, Walter (Mary Lee) Simms.

No services will be held at this time. Inurnment with a celebration of life will follow later this summer at Rocky Fork Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in William's honor may be made to the Mary Ann Township Fire Department, 6099 Fallsburg Rd NE, Newark, Ohio 43055; or Hospice of Central Ohio, 2269 Cherry Valley Rd SE, Newark, Ohio 43055.

The family would also like to send their deepest thanks to the Mary Ann Township Fire Department, Hospice of Central Ohio, and dear family friends, Kevin Thompson & Abby Rice. The support from these services and individuals allowed us to grant Bill his final wishes.

Together forever.