DORTHA ELIZABETH JOHNSON SIMMS

Dortha Elizabeth Johnson Sims of Advance, Mo., passed away at home on July 1, 1999 at 87 years old. She was born on June 11, 1912, 3 1/2 miles south of Advance to the late W.W. Johnson and Doretta Jane Johnson. She had one sister, Mildred P. Fisher and one brother Merrill Burford. Dortha resided in Advance all but eight years of her life when she lived in Sikeston, Mo.

She was united in marriage to Nathan M. Sims of Tillman, Mo. on Sept. 20, 1931. To this union 6 children were born, 4 daughters and 2 sons. She was preceded in death by her infant son Nathan Jr. and her husband Nathan M. Sims, March 8, 1993.

She is survived by her daughter, Patsy Jenkins (and husband Earl), of Sun Lakes, Arizona; her daughters Billie Harris (and husband David) and Gaynell Fowler (and husband Robert) and her son James J. Sims (and wife Nancy), all of Advance; and her daughter, Sharon Spane (and husband Ronald), of Chandler, Arizona. She is also survived by 5 grandsons, 5 granddaughters, 8 great-grandsons, and 3 great-granddaughters, several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Dortha was a life long member of Advance Methodist Church. She served her church as an active member and one time president of the Martha Circle, Sunday School Secretary and a Sunday School teacher for 8 years. She served her community as the Parent Teacher Association President for two years and contributing member for sixteen years; as the first president of the Band Boosters Club for Advance High School; and as a member and officer of the Democratic Women's Club of Stoddard County; a member of the Federated Women's Club for fifteen years, serving as president one year; member and past president of the Extension Club; a dedicated member and past matron of the Advance Eastern Stars for over 25 years and Honorary member of Roselle Chapter of Illinois Eastern Stars.

Dortha was a loving, beautiful woman who was always interested in everyone's well being. She served as a beauty consultant for over 35 years, inspiring, and encouraging women to stay active and be the best they could be.

Dortha was an active and dedicated volunteer involved in all community, school, and church activities, which supported her devotion to her husband and children.

Friends may call at Morgan Funeral Home in Advance from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, July 5, 1999. Funeral service will be at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. Burial will be in Morgan Memorial Park at Advance.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial donations may be made to the Stoddard County Children's Home, P.O. Box 164, Dexter, Mo. 63841.