Faye Sims, 89

Faye Sims, 89, longtime resident of Ava, began her earthly journey June 10, 1922, in Augusta, Kan., to parents Lee E. and Hannah (Lefler) Thurman. On April 15, 2012, she began her eternal life’s journey from Louisville, Ky.

Faye’s life touched many people. She taught school in one room school houses in Douglas County for several years helping students achieve their fullest ability. From 1945-1976 she owned and operated a beauty shop in Ava where she took great pride in helping ladies look their best. She later worked for 25 years as a social worker for the Division of Family Services. Faye went above and beyond the normal job description as a social worker, because the people she helped were not merely clients, they were her friends and neighbors.

Faye was a very active member of the Ava United Methodist Church, always willing to take on any responsibility. She was a tireless worker at their annual barbecue, baking countless pies and working on the Country Store. Perhaps one of the lasting memories she leaves at the church are the delicious yeast rolls she would bring to the dinners.

As her health declined she moved to Louisville, Ky., to live with her daughter, Sherry, and also made an impact on all she met there.

Faye was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bretney, and two brothers, Wendell and Gordon Thurman.

Faye is survived by two daughters, Sherry Sims and Katy Goss; as well as two grandchildren, Joshua Goss and Meghan Rowe. She is also survived by three sisters, Gayle Morgan, Rose Russell and Dora Thurman, as well as several nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by many friends and relatives. We will never forget her laughter filling any room with joy.

A devotion and visitation service was held Tuesday, April 17, at Fern Creek Funeral Home, Louisville, Ky. Funeral services will be conduced Thursday, April 19, at 4 p.m., in the Ava United Methodist Church, Ava, Mo. The family will receive friends at the Ava United Methodist Church on Thursday from 11 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in the Ava City Cemetery. Faye has requested that memorial donations be made to the Ava United Methodist Church.

All local arrangements are under the care and direction of Ava Family Funeral Home. To send condolences visit www.facebook. com/AvaFamilyFuneralHome.com.