James “Jim” Harvey Sims

James (“Jim”) Harvey Sims, 71, of Amarillo, TX passed away on April 2, 2024, after a short, but grueling, battle with cancer.

A memorial service honoring his life and legacy will take place at 1:00 PM, on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Washington Avenue Christian Church following a private interment in Llano Cemetery. Arrangements are managed by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Jim was born on August 14, 1952, in Chickasha, OK to parents Harvey and Juanice Sims. Jim is survived by his wife of 45 years, Laura (Badgett) Sims, their children Erin (Sims) Leeser, with husband Andrew, of Sugar Land, TX, and Barrett Sims, with wife Tiffany, of Amarillo, as well as their five grandchildren: Lincoln, Lawson, and Bauer Leeser and Riley and Olivia Sims.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Juanice Sims and brother Larry Sims of Ardmore, OK. Before his death, Jim remarked that, while he was sad to leave this life behind, he was confident in his salvation and looked forward to reuniting with family and friends in Heaven. His family takes great comfort in knowing he is in the presence of God, celebrating with those who have gone before.

Jim grew up in Wichita Falls, TX, graduating from Ryder High School. In 1975, Jim graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Architecture degree, launching a successful 49-year career in Amarillo. Licensed to practice in TX, NM, and OK, Jim left his mark on multiple buildings around the Panhandle. He was a founding partner in Mitchell Sims Architects, Sims Parge’ Architects, and most recently, SPM (Sims, Parge,’ Moya) Architects. Jim was grateful for his partners, team, and clients, and  loved his work to the end.

Jim is described as a steadfast, kind, and humble man who served his family, church, friends, profession, and community with integrity and distinction. He smiled and laughed often and loved people well. His children recall that he could always be counted on to do the right thing, even when it was difficult or unpopular. He was a loving,  supportive husband to Laura, and they built a beautiful life together. They enjoyed spending time serving at church, traveling, or attending concerts or shows together. He was a thoughtful and involved father, always present at his children’s events, and spent intentional time with each of them as they grew up. He was also a loving and supporting father-in-law and a proud grandfather. He and Laura made it a point to support their grandchildren, cheering them on at sports or activities whenever possible. They also strove to be present at important events in each grandchild’s life.  Some of Jim’s favorite memories include the vacations that the extended family took together, including a recent trip to Isla Mujeres where Jim enjoyed deep sea fishing with Barrett, Andrew, and all four grandsons. Jim taught each grandchild to fish and made wonderful memories with them at the family cabin in Red River, NM. The grandchildren will miss making s’mores around the cabin’s firepit and racing Jim (their “PJ”) in the annual summer go-cart race. Most importantly, however, Jim leaves a legacy of faith. His greatest comfort prior to death was knowing that his children, and all five grandchildren, are Christ-followers.

Jim also leaves a heritage of service. Jim, Laura, and their children loved their church family at Paramount Terrace Christian Church / Hillside Christian Church in Amarillo, where Jim and Laura were members for over 30 years. Jim served as Chairman of the Board of Elders, a youth group sponsor, and was a member of the Peacemakers class. He also actively supported mission work in Kingston, Jamaica, making many trips to support building projects and to encourage church leaders.

In 2016, Jim and Laura became a part of the wonderful church family at the Washington Avenue Christian Church, where Jim would go on to serve as an Elder. Jim was a wise steward of the gifts that God had bestowed, and generously shared his blessings. He passionately believed in the mission of El Porvenir Christian Camp where he served on the Board of Directors for many years. He also supported the work of Sharing Hope Ministry and the various programs they offer. He was pleased to donate his professional services as the ministry grew over the years.

The family would like to thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time. They will miss Jim terribly but are grateful for his love and take comfort knowing they will be reunited one day in Heaven. Until then, they pray his legacy will live on for the glory of God.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Washington Avenue Christian Church building Fund, El Porvenir Christian Camp, or Sharing Hope Ministry.