At a young age his parents instilled a sense of public service. By age 17 his father who owned one of Tampa’s first automobiles, had him driving people to the polls sparking his life long interest in politics.
A World War II Army sergeant, he trained soldiers in the Anti-Aircraft Division stationed throughout the country.
After the war he and his brother went into the citrus business buying and shipping for 49 years, spending summers out west with his family providing precious memories. He was a shrewd businessman, strict taskmaster and held empathy for the less fortunate. His integrity and work ethic were admirable. Upon retirement he continued his activism in community affairs. All who knew him appreciated his fairness, loyalty and humility. He was both moderate and deliberate with his words - always a peacemaker.
He mentored many and worked tirelessly to elect his late son-in-law, Judge Robert James Simms. In 2001 he was recognized in the local media as being instrumental in reviving Tampa’s Ybor City Historic District. He served on numerous boards and civic organizations. He was a life long learner and an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and boating.
Above all he treasured his family. He and his devoted wife Lillian made a handsome couple dancing to “Stardust” for 70 years. He respected his parents and cherished his daughters and grandchildren. In his later years they steadfastly remained by his side, returning the devotion and unconditional love he bestowed upon them.
He is survived by wife Lillian, daughters, and son in laws: Loraine and John Woodacre, Wellesley, MA; Rosalie Simms (and the late Honorable Robert J. Simms) and Patricia and Michael Stalvey, Temple Terrace. Grandchildren Paul Ross Seibert of MA; Courtney and Thomas Fennimore, Litchfield, CT and Beijing, China; Jacqueline Simms-Petredis and Justin Petredis, Temple Terrace; Kelsey Stalvey, Orlando; Landen Stalvey, Pensacola and his great grandson Jameson Robert Fennimore. Predeceased by his beloved brother Victor and Honorable Robert J. Simms.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Honorable Robert J. Simms Memorial Fund, c/o Century Bank, 716 West Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612-3423 or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, ATTN: Tribute Gifts, Church Street Station, P.O. Box 780, New York, NY 10008-0780.
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