1934
2016
SIMS, Darlene D., age 82, of Tampa, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, November 27, 2016. She died peacefully in her sleep after a holiday week surrounded by loving family, with wonderful food, fellowship, card-playing, and fun. Darlene was born June 24, 1934, the daughter of John and Viola (née Behne) Dechow. She earned her B.A in English from Michigan State and her M.A in Library Education from U.S.F. She had a 30-year career as a Librarian/Media Specialist, encouraging the love of literature, reading, research and learning. She was a longtime 37-year member of Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, where she sang in the choir, taught bible studies, and was active in fellowship groups until her health declined in her later years. Darlene was blessed with a wonderful 62-year marriage to her husband, John. They shared an adventurous life of many military moves, and the joy of a large family - 5 children, 11 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. Darlene will be remembered for her unshakable faith, her love of family, and her joy of life. She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandson, John Wesley Sims, IV and a sister that died in infancy. Survivors include her husband of 62 years, John W. Sims, Jr., Lt. Col USAF (Ret); sons, John W. Sims, III and Gregory M. Sims; daughters, Vicki V. Lowry and husband George Patrick, Cristi L. Anderson, and Laree S. Butler and husband John D.; brothers, Dr. Jon Dechow and wife Esther and Dr. Paul Dechow and wife Dr. Joanne Blum; sister, Dr. Lynn McAndrews and husband James; grandchildren, Joshua, Jacob and Janna Sims, Shalyn and Kyle Lowry, Amie Bowling and husband Matthew, Amanda Burgin and husband Marcus, Andrew Anderson and Jackson and Jamie Butler; and great-grandchildren, Kaylor and Hunter Bowling. A memorial service (with a dinner immediately following) will be held at 6 p.m., Saturday, December 3rd at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, 3501 W. San Jose St., Tampa, FL 33629. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Darlene’s memory to Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church.
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5 Entries
December 5, 2016
jan Watson
I didn't meet my cousin Darlene until I was 33 but it was instant BFF.
Darlene is the best, and I'll love her forever.
Jan DechowWatson
December 4, 2016
Bob Alexander
I worked with Darlene for most of her career in the school system. She was always there for the students and was a wonderful Media Specialist. My condolences to the family and Our Lord will keep good care of her.
December 3, 2016
Kathy Dechow
It has been several years since I saw my Aunt Darlene, but I remember her spirit - her smile and laughter, her sense of humor and upbeat attitude, - which made our visits with her so memorable. My condolences to all of her family and friends. I know she will be missed.
November 29, 2016
Debbie Smith
I will so miss my cousin and my friend - her laughter, her stories, her love of family - forever in my heart. I know you are sharing God's embrace right now.
November 28, 2016
LENORA CATALANO
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
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