Celebrating The Life of Alfonza Blackwell Sims September 5, 1996 ~ July 19, 2023 III III
Al Sims’ Celebration Of Life Officiant: Pastor Althea Sims Processional: Clergy, Pallbearers, Family Musical Prelude................................................................”Just Want to Praise You” Prayer............................................................................................Pastor Althea Sims Scripture..................................Old and New Testament..........Elder Elliot Bullock Selection................................................................................First Lady Tenecia Sims Reflections....................................................(Please keep remarks to two minutes) Family..............................................................Dr. Doris Sims, Mr. Michael Jackson Church................................................Evangelist Lisa Scales, Elder Derrick Burton Friend....................................................................................................Ms. Lucy Haro Selection..................................................................................Pastor Althea Howard Resolutions................................................................................Sis. Latrice Valentine Acknowledgments.......................................................................Sis.Yolanda Burton My Story.........................................................................Read by Sis. Yolanda Burton Video Tribute Remarks/Selection.......................................................................Dr. Aaron Howard Eulogy...................................................................................Pastor Ryan David Sims Recession Celebration of Life Friday August 11, 2023 11am Shackelford Miracle Temple C.O.G.I.C 6025 S. Figueroa St Los Angeles, Ca 90003 Supt. Chane P. Smith, Host Pastor Pastor Ryan D. Sims, Pastor 22939 Hawthorne Blvd. Suite 109 Torrance, California 90505 Office: 310.373.1222 ~ Fax: 310.373.1233 email: [email protected] www.cllynchmortuary.net Interment Inglewood Park Cemetery 720 East Florence Avenue Inglewood, CA 90301
My Story I was born on September 5, 1996, a day that brought immense joy to my mom’s life. My parents had been married for 10 years before my unexpected arrival, a beautiful surprise orchestrated by God. Despite having two older sisters, Amber and Tori, I expressed my desire for a baby brother. My mom reminded me that I was a miracle, but I kept wishing for a brother, and to my delight, God granted my heart’s desire, and Chris became my baby brother. Chris and I both shared a passion for music. We learned to play different instruments, with me on the keyboard and Chris on the drums. We often had jam sessions together in our shared bedroom, and our musical bond was evident. While I was gifted in music, I struggled with shyness when performing in front of others. Nevertheless, my mother encouraged me to face this challenge and pushed me to audition for the prestigious Academy of Music and Performing Arts Magnet at Alexander Hamilton High School. Despite my talent, when asked by my teacher in my freshman year to perform at the end of the year program, I hesitated and declined the opportunity, a decision I now regret. I also discovered that I had a talent for handyman work and enjoyed buying and selling motor scooters for a profit. It was a skill that came naturally to me. As high school came around, I faced challenges that caused me to spiral downward. Yet, the love and support of my family and church community lifted me up through prayer and faith in God. As a young adult, I ventured into selling cars and trucks, applying the same research and marketing skills that had served me well with motor scooters. I was good at finding jobs too and worked to support myself from the age of eighteen. Even during the pandemic, I managed to find work and remained hardworking and dependable. Working at Qusqo, a Peruvian restaurant, was a significant experience for me. Starting as a dishwasher, I caught the eye of the owner, Lucy, who saw potential in me to become a cook. With her training, I excelled in the kitchen and felt a sense of pride in my accomplishments. Lucy’s encouragement pushed me to strive for more in life. Despite my successes, I continued to face challenges, but the unwavering support and prayers of my family and church, kept me going, reminding me that God was in control. Today, as you gather with sadness and disappointment, I want you to remember that your prayers and sacrifices were not in vain. Even though my story might not have ended as you had hoped, I believe that God’s plans are always in motion, and I am grateful for the love and faith you showed me throughout my journey.
Thank You There are no words to express the gratitude we have in our hearts for the love and support we have received during this very difficult time. We appreciate every prayer you made on our behalf, your comforting phone calls and texts, the beautiful plants and flowers and the delicious meals we have received. And for just being available. We are so grateful. We love you all. Please continue to pray for us. Pallbearers Walter Jackson, Joseph Thompson, Corey Johnson Evan Sims, Jonathan Sims, Ryan Sims II Honorary Pallbearers Andrew Sims, Loren Holmes, Mason Sims Julian Williams, Mateo Johnson, Aaron Yosef Howard Photo by Chris Sims