Edith Marie Sims, 96, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 8:51 A.M., Friday September 4, 2026, at Gibson Area Hospital in Gibson City, IL, and her beloved husband of 73 years, James Edward “Ed” Sims, 95, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 10:30 P.M. Sunday, September 6, 2026, at Williamsport Nursing and Rehabilitation in Williamsport, IN.
Edith was born on December 14, 1929, in Iroquois County, IL, the daughter of George A. and Mildred (Allen) Dewey. She worked in Human Resources at FMC in Hoopeston for over 30 years until her retirement. She enjoyed golfing and was a member of Hubbard Trail Country Club. She also enjoyed bowling, sewing, tending to her flowers, and caring for hummingbirds.
Ed was born on October 2, 1930, in Metcalfe Co., KY, the son of Edgar and Elsie (Thompson) Sims. He started his working career at Joan of Arc and continued at FMC for 30 years in various roles, including stockroom and then in purchasing until his retirement. He became an accomplished videographer, recording many weddings and other events. After his retirement, Ed produced videos for FMC Corp. featuring their machinery and processes. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corp., serving in the Philippines. He was a member of the Hoopeston Masonic Star Lodge #709 where he was a 32-degree Scottish Rite Mason and Shriner. Ed was a member of the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384 and Hubbard Trail Country Club, as he was an avid golfer. He also enjoyed bowling and took great pride in caring for his lawn.
Ed and Edith married on September 20, 1952, in Orange, CA. Throughout their nearly 74 years of marriage, they were true partners in every sense as they enjoyed their time together bowling, golfing, and traveling to Florida for many years.
They are survived by two nephews, Michael and Gregory Roberts, many cousins, and friends.
Edith was preceded in death by her parents, George and Mildred Dewey. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Elsie Sims; one sister, Mary Roberts (Richard); and one brother, Philip Sims (Patsy).
A joint visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 A.M., Friday, September 11, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St., Hoopeston, IL, with Masonic rites for Ed being conducted at 10:00 A.M. The funeral service for Edith and Ed will follow at 11:00 A.M. Friday at the funeral home with Pastor Bryan Langdoc officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery with military rites being accorded by the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; Shriners Children’s, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394; or to the donor’s choice.
Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Ed and Edith’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.
Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.
