200 Butternut Drive
Fredericksburg, Virginia
Byron Ralph Sims was born in Orange, New Jersey on October 9, 1966 to Ralph Sims and the late Edith H. Sims. He passed away peacefully on January 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
After graduating from Ewing Township High School in 1984, and prior to attending college, Byron enrolled in West Point Preparatory School receiving an Honorable Discharge. He furthered his education at Florida A&M University earning a Bachelor’s Degree, while serving four years in the ROTC program. In 1998, he received a Master’s Degree from Central Michigan University. While attending college, Byron volunteered in various organizations in addition to working some retail jobs. He interned with the State of Florida Bureau of Economic Analysis, mainly assisting in organizing international research material on Spain and Italy.
Byron’s military career started immediately after graduation from Florida A&M University with a commission to the United States Army. As a First and Second Lieutenant, he was a Platoon Infantry officer. Promoted to Captain, he changed to the Quartermaster Corp. At Fort Jackson, he ran thirty ranges, coordinated training courses and oversaw the Salute Battery. At Fort Lee, he provided briefings to the Commanding General. During Puerto Rico (PR) and Panama assignments, he was responsible for logistical support for the units in South America. While at Fort Buchanan, PR, he was promoted to Major. Byron retired as a Lieutenant Colonel at the Pentagon. He earned and received many medals, awards and badges throughout his military career.
In Byron’s earlier life he developed an interest in sports – soccer, basketball, baseball, golf, tennis and swimming, which continued throughout his life. Additional activities included being a lifetime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and being a Mason.
Byron leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Marian of Fredericksburg, VA, son Alexander, father Ralph Sims of Ewing, NJ, sister Celeste Mosby (Shawn Sr.), nephews Miles and Shawn, Jr. (Elaina) and a host of family and friends.
Byron loved God, his family and country.
A viewing will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, on Friday, February 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. The interment will follow at Quantico National Cemetery at 1:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Byron Ralph Sims to the 1906 Education Foundation, P.O. Box 7098, West Trenton, NJ 08628 or Zeta Iota Education Foundation, P.O. Box 5401, Trenton, NJ 08638.
Judy Wilson
March 10, 2025
So sorry of our lost, my second cousin, 1st cousin Ralph Sims my prayer's are with the family. Cousin Judy AZ
Bernard Warrington
February 6, 2025
B - brother, miss you dearly, miss your smile, quick wit, authenticity, and caring spirit. Lots going on here, more like more things change more they remain the same! Most importantly, quite often many fond memories of our time together return! We know you're looking down and covering Marian and Alex, love you brother.
B and Fam.
Tom Rubino
March 2, 2024
So sad to hear about Byron. We played at great deal of soccer together growing up. I remember him as always smiling and friendly, which he clearly learned from his parents. Mr. Sims and the rest of his family, my condolences. May God grant you comfort and peace during this difficult time. I will be praying for all of you. Tom Rubino
Carol & Doug Taylor
February 28, 2024
Our prayers are with you, Ralph, Celeste and family. No words can be said to ease your pain, but please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
With our deepest sympathy.
RT
February 28, 2024
by Yehuda Halevi (1075-1141)
`Tis a fearful thing
to love what death can touch.
A fearful thing
to love, to hope, to dream, to be-
to be,
And oh, to lose.
A thing for fools, this,
And a holy thing,
a holy thing
to love.
For your life has lived in me,
your laugh once lifted me,
your word was gift to me.
To remember this brings painful joy.
`Tis a human thing, love,
a holy thing, to love
what death has touched.
Tanya Williams
February 28, 2024
I Want To Give My Condolences To The Sims Family And Sorry For The Lost.
Theresa Wright
February 27, 2024
My sincerest condolences to Byron´s family, friends and all those that knew him and loved him. We grew up together in Ewing,same neighborhood and friends . We graduated in 1984 together. Byron was a prince of a man, always sweet, smart, kind, and goal driven. Wow and to see and read all he achieved in this lifetime is a testament of how disciplined he was even in school, he was a honor student, striving always for excellence. I´m so saddened by his departure, praying for Celeste, and family and friends and everyone who life he touched . My sincerest condolences. Theresa Wright(Smith) class of 84
Tab Stewart
February 16, 2024
My deepest sympathy to the Sims' family.
Anece White
February 15, 2024
Such a kind heart, who greeted everyone with an infectious smile. The earth is missing a special soldier and a Faithful Rattler.
Yoshi Wilson
February 15, 2024
When I landed on the campus of Florida A&M University in the fall of 1987 as a clueless freshman, I was beyond thrilled to meet someone else from Jersey. “B” was always energetic, always kind and always took the time out to know people - genuinely. Grateful to have had the opportunity to get to know him while at FAMU. Rest in peace Battle!
Frank Bryant
February 15, 2024
In the years that I had known Byron at Florida A&M University, I cannot think of one person who could say anything negative about him. He was such a well-spoken, professional, and likable individual. It was no surprise that he chose to serve our country since he was one of our very best. He was very motivating and an inspiration to us all. I know this since Byron was the Sphinxman behind me on our line as we pledged to become brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Once we graduated, our lives took separate paths. That is just how life, is for good or for bad. Even though you and I were not in direct communication for decades, I could always count on getting updates about all the impactful things that you were doing from other brothers. I will cherish the memories of seeing you and laughing with you over Zoom these last few years. I am proud to have been able to call you, my brother. I will miss you B. Sending prayers to Byron’s wife and family!!
Barron Hodges
February 13, 2024
My condolences to you all on the loss of great man, husband, father, and Soldier. Although we feel a void here on earth, God has added another Soldier to his heavenly ranks. May the Lord bless and mend the hole that you have in your heart. May you find peace in knowing that Byron is home with his Heavenly Father, and that you will see him again.
Brothers in Arms, 1989
Tony B Curtis
February 13, 2024
You will always be remembered. RIP my brother !
Wanda Robinson-Kalala
February 11, 2024
Byron, you were there, and your dear family, for all those years for my son, and I thank you so much, even as late as it is. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy in expressing my condolences to you all. God is with those who are good and remain good throughout.
Tierra Johnson
February 11, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Sim’s family. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sending Love to you Cousin Ralph.
Tierra
Ranger Sims! Hooah!
Rod Rose
February 10, 2024
B was simply the best! An amazing man! RIP Ranger!
DC - 2007
Bernard Warrington Jr
February 6, 2024
DMV - 2019
Bernard Warrington Jr
February 6, 2024
Bernard Warrington Jr
February 6, 2024
B - brother, grateful to have shared the same space, time, and air since 1999! You are a rarity, a true brother and friend!
Appreciate your friendship and brotherly love! May the good Lord’s Providence, and Protection overshadow Marian and Alex in their journey ahead - rest easy, brother we’ll continue your watch on this side of “Jordan” as you do for us on the other.
In Phileo - B
ALAN ARMSTRONG
February 5, 2024
Rest in Power my Brother! - You lived a truly remarkable life!
Marty Lee
February 5, 2024
Byron was an excellent friend and brother. His positive energy made you want to be around him all the time. He made it easier to be in college far away from home. God Bless you!
Larry Rentz
February 5, 2024
Take your rest, Rattler. May the Lord comfort those that loved you best. Never forgotten.
Jemal Gibson
February 5, 2024
Rest well good brother FAMU, BN, AROTC, ARMY
Kirk McCall
February 5, 2024
Byron was a friend to many a Brother to others, but more importantly an enduring husband and faithful son. He was and is a light unto this world and his smile and laugher will always be infectious. He was able to meet with Triumph and Disaster and treat both imposters just the same. Rest in your power my Brother. “Rangers Lead The Way!!!” Hooah!!!!
January 31, 2024
On behalf of A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, we express our deepest condolences during this difficult time. We extend continued prayers of strength and comfort. Our thoughts are with your family.
A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home
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Feb
16
10:00 a.m.
A. L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, Inc. - Fredericksburg200 Butternut Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Feb
16
11:00 a.m.
A. L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, Inc. - Fredericksburg200 Butternut Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
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A. L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, Inc. - Fredericksburg200 Butternut Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
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