The Lord called “Buddy” to Hog Heaven on October 28, 2018 at the age of 74. Buddy was born on August 9, 1944. He was a resident of Hazen and a life-long member of the Hazen First United Methodist Church. He represented his local community extremely well as a member of the Arkansas Razorback football team from 1962-1965. He was also a member of the 1964 National Collegiate Football Championship Team. During this same time period, Buddy married the love of his life, Marilyn Grady. Buddy and Marilyn were inseparable for the next 54 years as they raised two children (Bill and Melanie), and eventually multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Buddy was an avid Razorback fan and spent countless hours cheering on the Hogs no matter what sport they were playing. His love for the Hogs was never questioned; however, his love for family exceeded all. Buddy transformed from a Razorback, to a husband, dad, and ultimately, to the man those closest to him called “Big Dad”. The most important thing in Big Dad’s life was family and all of his babies. “Big Dad” was a formidable man and was larger than life in many ways. His impressive physical stature and his over exuberant personality caused confusion to many, but those that knew him best saw him and loved as the gentle giant that he truly was.
Buddy is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughter, Melanie (Kelly) Konecny and grandchildren Chandler, Connor, Chloe and Carson Konecny; grandson, Bryce (Elaina) Sims and great-grandchildren, Eden and Garner Sims; and God-given children, Davy, Angie, Brenon, Brayden, and Brance Williams; sister, Melinda Sims; brother, Chuck Sims; brother-in-law, Larry (Sue) Grady; and several loving nieces and nephews. Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Alyeene Sims and; son, Billy Frank (Bill) Sims, Jr; and brother, Burk Sims.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, October 30 at the Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen. A funeral service in memory of Buddy will be held on Wednesday, October 31, 2018, 11:00 A.M. at the Hazen United Methodist Church, 211 North Hazen Avenue. Memorials may be sent to the Hazen First United Methodist Church.
So sorry to here . Our prayers are with all the family. God bless you all.
Lester & Barbara.
Thoughts and prayers to all of the family.
We are so sorry for your loss.
Ronnie & Kathy Simmons
Buddy and I double dated in high school, and was one of my first friends when I moved to Hazen. He and I attended The University of Arkansas together… Buddy played for the Razorbacks and I watched. He was an outstanding Athlete. My deepest condolences to Marilyn and family
Prayers for the family of Buddy. He was indeed a very nice person
We all loved Uncle Buddy snd Aunt Marilyn. Chuck and I spent many days of our youth and nights at their house. This family is so much a part of my life. Love and prayers to all in the many days to come.
Buddy was a big bubbling personality. Lots of fun and much devoted to his wife Marilyn and family. Marilyn and Buddy were a twosome since childhood – always excellent dancing partners – on and off the dance floor,
Marilyn,
Out thoughts are with you during this time. May God wrap his loving arms around you.
Janet & Elizabeth
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Buddy’s family and friends.
Marilyn,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mr. Buddy was definitely a gentle giant. He was so full of joy. Even in times of stride. I know he’s rejoicing today, pain free and whole again. Love you all and many prayers for the days ahead!
I thought the world of Mr. Buddy and I truly love Mrs. Marilyn! He will truly be missed around Hazen, but I know he is rejoicing seeing his son again!!! Love you Mrs. Marilyn and if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to call.
Marilyn and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Buddy was a great guy! You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family and friends.
Sorry to hear. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Buddy was a neighbor in Hazen When my sister, Marilynn and I lived on same street and attended school with each other. There weren’t many girls on the South side of Hazen so the girls were tom-boys and played fooball and also drew the circle and played marbles just like the boys. Billy Frank was a fun loving and athletic person and we made trips to Fayetteville when he was a RAZORBACK. Marilyn and Family, We all are sorry for your loss. He now joins the Angels Choir and watchful over all of us now.
Love to Buddy for he was a good friend to all
My thoughts of lots a laughs and good times when Buddy was around….prayers ….I( am so sorry to hear the sad news….Hot Springs Village,AR
Heaven gained a wonderful man. You will be missed, Buddy!!
I love you, Marilyn. May God keep you in His comforting arms.
Mary Stuart
Sending my sincere condolences to Mrs. Marilyn and family. May God bless and comfort you during this difficult time.
Thoughts and prayers with you Marilyn and family and Chuck. Know you were proud of and loved this big man. God comfort and bless this big family. Mom was 74. We were blessed to have them this long. Many Wonderful memories!
God bless you all.
He was a wonderful man and will be missed Want to let you know that your family are in our prayers.
The Pendergrass, Fisher and Spratt families
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for all of you. Mr. Buddy was a such a wonderful man. He will be missed by so many. You will be in our prayers.
If Hazen had a “Hall of Fame,” the name of Buddy Sims would be in it.
His extraordinary athletic abilities as a leading member of the 1964 Razorback National Collegiate Championship Team would place Buddy
alongside military generals, renown educators, distinguished physicians,
three ladies who wore the “Miss Arkansas” crown (if I remember right), highly respected lawyers, influential politicians, dedicated ministers, and other distinguished individuals with Hazen roots.
But Buddy was more than just a big man with remarkable athletic ability and skill. He was also a big man with a big heart who cared deeply for his family, his friends, his church, his town, and his surrounding communities. He never met a stranger and his friendly, outgoing manner uplifted the spirits of those around him. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to be cherished by all those who knew him.
We extend our sympathy and prayers to this wonderful family and Buddy’s many friends. May God’s Word and His Holy Spirit (the “Comforter”) provide strength, comfort, and assurance in the days ahead. Billy and Gail Booth family