Charles Sims, 86, of Lancaster, Ohio passed away Saturday, April 30, 2022 surrounded by his family.

Charles was born on August 4, 1935 in Lexington, Kentucky to the late Hugh Byron Sims and Kathryn (Kessler) Sims. He was married to his loving, devoted wife of 65 years, Shirley (Smith) Sims. Charles earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky and later received a Doctor of Musical Arts from Indiana University. He was a college professor, and throughout his career taught at five different schools, including Taylor University and Malone College. He also served as Minister of Music in several churches.

Charles’ love of music was expressed through his beautiful voice and by teaching others how to use their vocal gifts. He and his wife were members of the United Methodist Church. He enjoyed sports whether it was watching the University of Kentucky Wildcats or the Chicago Cubs. He was very fond of working in his yard or looking at cars. He was described as an amazing caregiver, always seeking to help those in need.

Charles is survived by his wife, Shirley (Smith) Sims; children, Kristin Strong of Springfield, Missouri, Karin (Thomas) Howard of Lancaster, Ohio, and Laura Lea Sims of Peoria, Arizona, and Nathan Kessler Sims of Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren, Ian (Andrea) Howard, Brenna (Bishoy) Habib, Austin Howard, Owyn (Julia) Howard, Schyler Strong, and Oscar DeBolt-Sims; 2 great grandchildren; siblings, Byron Sims, Larry (Rethia) Sims, and Mary K. (William) Perkins; and 7 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his baby brother, Michael.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 4:00 PM at the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL, 405 N. COLUMBUS ST., LANCASTER, OHIO 43130 with Pastor Melvin Truex officiating. Friends may visit Thursday from 3:00-4:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Wilmore Cemetery in Wilmore, Kentucky following a Celebration of Life Service at the Wilmore Free Methodist Church on Saturday, May 7, 2022 with visitation from 1:00-2:00 PM.

Memorial gifts may be given to Asbury University, 1 Macklem Drive, Wilmore, Kentucky 40390, or Hollow Rock Campmeeting Association, P.O Box 1123, Shelbyville, Indiana 46176 (℅ Rob Aukerman).