Coach Norman William Sims, 71, of Dawson, Georgia, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026. Coach Sims was born on June 13, 1954 in Phenix City, Alabama to the late Tommie Lee and Inell Sims.

 He was raised in a loving caring family environment, with 8 brothers. During that early period of maturation, Norman was taught strong social, ethical, and religious values, along with the importance of serving others. Those same values elevated him to positions of leadership and purpose, places where he was able to share those tenets with all who knew him, especially the young football players that he coached over several decades. Norman graduated from Pacelli High School, Columbus, Georgia and attended University of North Alabama, Florence, earning a Bachelors’ degree in Health and Physical Education and assisting the charting of the first chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. At Valdosta State University, Norman earned a Master’s Degree and at Troy State earned a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership.

Coach Sims dedicated over 35 years of his professional life to coaching football, beginning in Madison, Florida. Eventually, his love of coaching the sport took him across the State of Georgia. His work ethic was unmatched and he amassed several outstanding coaching titles from various city and county institutions. Known for his impeccable integrity, strong leadership skills, commitment to community and family, especially his “girls,” he made a lasting impact on many individuals. His greatest remembrances of coaching were mentoring young men. Coach Sims took great pride in meeting and greeting former players as they talked extensively about the good plays, the not so good ones, and the personal and professional successes of “his players.”

The life of a Coach encompasses very long hours, with very little time for hobbies or resting. But Coach Sims always made time for his family, again, especially his “girls” whom he adored. He spoiled them with family vacations, “Daddy Daughter” dances, all sorts of surprises, creative hairdos, and even tea parties! Norman was a loving and devoted father, husband, grandfather, and the ultimate confidant as a spouse. His wisdom, kindness, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He leaves to cherish his awesome memories his wife of 30 years, Freddie Powell Sims, two devoted daughters, Monica and Alycia Sims, four grandchildren Asia, London, Bryson and Savion; four brothers, Danny, Lester, Marvin, and Gregory; a loving sister Betty Ann; a special “brother,” Reggie Lewis and a step-daughter, Jocelyn. There are multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins and other extended family members and dear friends.

The Memorial Requiem will be held at Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1010 Old Pretoria Road, Albany, Georgia 31721 on March 30, 2026 at 11:00am. “Family and Friends Greeting” will be held from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Services will immediately follow the greeting of friends.

The family sincerely thanks everyone who attended the funeral and extended condolences during this difficult time. Your presence, prayers, kind words, and acts of support have brought comfort and strength beyond measure. We are deeply grateful for the love shown to our family and will always cherish your thoughtfulness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center of South Georgia at 229 North Jackson Street, Albany 31701 (229-888-6555).