Commissioners Court approves “John Sims Day” in Smith County

SMITH COUNTY — The Smith County Commissioners Court ratified a resolution Tuesday, proclaiming April 13, 2023, as “John Sims Day” in Smith County, in honor of the veteran radio newsman who was laid to rest last Thursday. “This community was his family,” KTBB Account Executive Lonnie Johnson said in Commissioners Court. “It was always obvious but upon his death, it became even more obvious.” Since 1998, Sims served as news anchor and editor at KTBB radio. His career in radio spanned 46 years, with 43 of those in East Texas. He died March 31, 2023, after he was struck by a vehicle while walking near his home. His memorial service was held April 13, at First Christian Church.

Sims was involved in many local community organizations and was respected and admired by those with whom he interacted.

“John was such a unique individual,” former Precinct 1 Commissioner Jeff Warr said, adding that he met him in the 1990s, when Warr was a candidate for Tyler City Council. He said Sims was such a good reporter, you never knew which side he was on, as he just reported the facts. “He was such a high-quality person,” he added.

Smith County Judge Neal Franklin said he met Sims when he was candidate for Tyler Fire Chief years ago and he was “terribly nervous” to be interviewed for the first time by reporters. Sims’ was his first interview and he calmed him down. “He was such a special guy,” Franklin said. “He will definitely be missed by the community.”

Precinct 2 Commissioner John Moore worked with Sims during his radio career. “He was really one of the last true journalists that I was able to work with,” he said.