William Barton Simms Sr.

April 4, 1948 — December 2, 2023

William Barton Simms Sr., age 75 passed away December 2, 2023. Bill was born April 4, 1948

in Highland Park Michigan to Earl and Gladys Simms. He married his high school crush

Veda Dianne Simms who preceded him in death in 2005. Bill was lucky enough to find a

second love in Dr. Randi Lou Franklin and was married in 2015. Bill loved family, his friends,

his dog Niko and almost anything with a motor! He was an avid boater, fisherman and car

enthusiast for over 60 years. His love of racing and classic cars won him countless trophies

and awards from Detroit to Florida.

For many years Bill worked in law enforcement and security before transitioning to

entrepreneurial pursuits in the boating industry until his retirement. Bill was a big guy with

a bigger personality but all mush underneath. He had a deep concern and commitment to

those less fortunate and his philanthropy benefited many organizations including the

American Cancer Society, Gleaners Community Food Bank, Michigan Humane Society and

a host of others.

Bill loved music and as we all knew, a good meal too. He had an affinity for Lou Rawls

classics, Luther Vandross and of course anything Motown. He loved crab legs and it was rare

when he found a steak unappealing.

Bill Sr. was a diehard Lions fan. He attended games and threw bricks at the television

whenever Matt Stafford would throw an interception. Bill is survived by his wife Dr. Randi

Lou, his son, William B. Simms Jr. (Marchelle) Houston TX, grand children Miles and Maya,

his daughter Angela Rich (Mike) Houston, TX, granddaughter Brianna and his many cousins

and friends. All of whom he loved and touched deeply.

Please join us by celebrating his life Sunday December 17th , 2023 4-7pm at Sindbad’s

Restaurant & Marina 100 St. Clair Detroit, MI 48214 Phone: 313-822-8000

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one his favorite charities:

To order memorial trees in memory of William Barton Simms Sr., please visit our tree store.

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Sunday, December 17, 2023

4:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)

Sindbad's Restaurant and Marina

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