Jesse Sims

Jesse Sims, 79, a longtime Mooresville resident, passed away July 7, 2023, after a yearlong battle with health issues.  Jesse was born July 3, 1944, in Tompkinsville, Kentucky, the only son of the late Willie Franklin Parish and Allene (Dyer) Sims.  He married Jacqueline (Million) Sims in August of 1964, and she survives. 

Growing up on a farm in Brookston, Indiana, Jesse learned the value and importance of hard work.  He was a talented athlete, playing basketball, baseball, and running track during his high school days and as a basketball player at Indiana State University.  A self-made man, Jesse owned and operated three different businesses through the years:  Links, JGJ, and WHSE, Inc.  In addition to a larger-than-life stature and personality, and an eternally optimistic outlook, Jesse’s charismatic demeanor and charm were a perfect combination for much success in life and the business world. 

Jesse was an avid golfer and member of the Plainfield Elks Club, Mooresville Eagles, and was a member of the Masonic Lodge.  He was a faithful member of the Belleville Church of Christ.  He loved his garage time, sipping a cold Miller light, and making his rounds on his golf cart.  His favorite role though was that of Pappy to his beloved six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  He loved his family immensely and was very proud of their accomplishments.  Jesse taught his family to embrace their weaknesses and to learn from them.  Jesse will be fondly remembered for his kindness, genuine personality, and his ability to love unconditionally and without judgment. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth “Hattie” Coffel and his beloved dog, Oscar. 

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Jackie; children, Timothy (Lori) Sims, Jessica Blakey, and Jennifer (Patrick) Heyob; sister, Janice (Ron) Hiner; grandchildren, Joshua, Sabastian, Jarod, Jacob, Josie, and Leo; great-grandchildren, Kacie, Benji, and Mia; special companion, Diana LaMarca.

Jesse’s Life Celebration® Visitation and Funeral Service will be held at the Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, Mooresville.  Visitation will be Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 4 to 8 p.m., with services beginning at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 13, 2023.  The burial will be in White Lick Cemetery.  Visit
www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.  “If you love your Pappy, raise your hand!”

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  1. Jessica and family, I’m so sorry to hear of the loss your Father. Heartfelt condolences, prayers and Love sent your way

  2. I am so sorry, Jessica. My heart goes out to you and your entire family. Love and prayers, Michelle Walden

  3. Jenny, I’m saddened to hear of the loss of your father. He was a bigger than life figure in my adolescence and will be forever remembered. Prayers for you and your family during this difficult time. Please send our condolences to your mother Jackie.

  4. Jan, Todd, Jill, Nathan Kiefer has purchased Eco-Friendly Memorial Trees for Jesse Sims

  5. Childhood memories of helping our Dads on the farm so long ago. Jesse was a great man. So sorry for your loss.

  6. Jackie I rode back and forth with Jess from Indiana State for a SEMESTER.
    He was always talking about you and how mu loved you even at that early age. I married his cousin Helen and she passed last October. It is hard, but family and God will get you through. Jess was quite a bball player and could score inside, Like most of us winning was the most important. We sure had a lot of fun, I am sure Jess was an exciting marriage and taught his kids to enjoy life.
    Even though we had lost touch, his passing hit me hard. Due to aging I will not be ABLE TO ATTEND., MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU. EXPRESS MY FEELINGS TO JANICE AND RON.

  7. Jesse, your neighbors will miss the 4×4 with the orange pennant going along County Line Road stopping at our house to admire/comment my wife’s flowers around the lamp post. Then you would leave with your navigator/companion along side with you as you make your way home.
    Glad to hear you finally made it home.

  8. Dad!!! I know how proud you were seeing all “Pappy 6” of your grandkids today proudly honor you. Please keep a close hand and hug with each of them as they perervere without you. You were bigger then life to us all, so living without you hurts like hell. I love you dad and am so proud to be your daughter. We visited you soooo many times tonight while you are resting. Perfect send off for a perfect pappy. Now, “let’s move on to another problem”.


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