Naomi Hairston Sims was born September 7, 1929, to Peter and Ever Hairston. She transitioned on May 3, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Mrs. Betty Jean Sims Kennel; brothers, William, Stokes, James, and Jody; and sisters, Verona, Essie, Arizona, Zella Mae, and Savannah. 

Naomi was educated in the Davidson County public schools and graduated from Dunbar High School. She retired from United Furniture Company after 25 years of service. A devoted lifelong member of Buncombe Baptist Church, Naomi lived a life rooted in faith, prayer, service, and strength. Her belief in God guided her through every season. She served faithfully in many ministries, including the Usher Board, Pastor’s Aide, Culinary Ministry, Spiritual and Gospel Choirs, Youth Sunday School, Willing Workers, Missionary Ministry, and community outreach until her health declined. Known as a powerful prayer warrior, speaker, and MC at church events, Naomi’s spirit endures through her love for God and her dedication to family and community. 

Her family was her greatest joy. She was nurturing, protective, and loved cooking, gathering loved ones, and giving generously. Family gatherings always ended with worship, gratitude, and her closing words of wisdom and prayer. She instilled in her children the importance of serving God, being thankful, and staying united as a family. Naomi was a former member of the Davidson County Hairston Clan and was well known for her humor. 

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Rev. Dr. Carol Sims‑Brooks (James); six grandchildren, Kevin Sims (Helena), Arthur Simrel, Jr. (Paris), Quincy Simrel (Jackie), Latoyra Sims, Brandi Kennel, and Victor Kennel (Kristen); fifteen great‑grandchildren, Michael Nunn (Waynetta), Kayla Sims, Devon Sims, Alexius Simrel, Ra'miyah Simrel, Shaniyah Kendall, Jaylen Sims (Joy), Savion Nunn, Alston Jackson, Tiara Martin, Wanya Martin, Brandon Martin, Jasiyah Coleman, Calvin Moore Jr., and Willow Davis; two great‑great‑grandchildren, Khloe Johnson and Jude Sims; her sister, Rev. Betty Lou Burke; Tossie Mae Davis and adopted daughter, Nandra Gant; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A viewing will be held from 2:00pm until 8:00pm Friday, May 8, 2026 at Buncombe Baptist Church, 539 Hairston Rd. Lexington, NC.

Funeral services will be held at 3:30pm Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Buncombe Baptist Church, 539 Lexington NC 27295. Interment will follow in the Buncombe Baptist Church Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 3:00pm until 3:30pm on Saturday at the Church.