Herschel Belden Sims

Herschel Belden Sims Jr., 68, of Topeka, Kansas passed away August 12, 2017 at St. Francis Hospital. He was born on June 2, 1949 in Kokomo, Indiana to John Tennif West and Lorraine Warner. He was raised by his aunt Bertha West-Sims and grandmother, Batchi Arnett-West of Bulls Gap, Tennessee on a 1300-acre farm with many cousins. Herschel left school and home at a young age and served in both the Marines and the Army, where he served in the Vietnam War and was a decorated combat veteran. He then worked as a general contractor for FPC out of Houston, Texas for four years. He was a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and played with Willie Nelson’s band.

Herschel is survived by his wife Lisa Sims, of Topeka; two sons, James Tankersley of Peru, Indiana and Eric Sims of Jacksonville, Florida; a daughter, Tawnya Shriver of Gastonia, North Carolina; a brother James West of Springtown, Texas; and five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by both of his parents and many brothers and sisters.

Cremation is planned and there will be no services at this time.
Memorial contributions may be made out to the Topeka Rescue Mission and sent in the care of Davidson Funeral Home.