Nathan Hughes Simms, Sr., 96, of Winston-Salem, NC completed this earthly journey, Tuesday, February 19, 2008, in Louisville, KY. Born September 8, 1911 as the 10th of 12 children of Spencer and Emma Simms of Belton, SC, he moved to Winston-Salem, NC at an early age. He attended the city's public schools. He spent 47 years as an employee with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and for many years he also operated his own private cleaning service.

Simms joined his beloved Mt. Zion Baptist Church 71 years ago. He was at various times President of the Men's Usher Board, the combined Usher Board, Laymen's League, a Boy Scout and Club Scout leader and church Trustee. He served faithfully until his health prevented further regular attendance.

Simms was preceded in death by his wives, Dorothy T. Simms, Rosebud J. Simms, Alberta H. Simms and son-in-law, Henry E. Stepp, Sr. as well as all of his siblings.

Among those he leaves to cherish his memory are children, Nathan F. Simms, Jr. (Helen) of Chapel Hill, NC, Jacob E. Simms and Vera S. Stepp both of Winston-Salem, NC, and Karen S. Tolson of Louisville, KY; eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1 pm Monday, February 25, 2008 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. Serenus T. Churn, Sr. Pastor, officiating and eulogist. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. Family visitation will held from 12 Noon until 1 pm at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church File-Goodwin Center Monday at the church. Family center of activities will be at 598 Kinard Dr., Winston-Salem, NC.

"In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to either the Mt. Zion Church Building Fund or to Hosparus of Louisville, Attn. Baptist Hospital NE, Hospice In-Patient Care Unit, P.O. Box 35425 Louisville, KY 40232-9892. A.D. Porter Funeral Home, Louisville, KY and Russell Funeral Home, Winston-Salem, NC are providing services to the family."