Franklin Sims Obituary

Franklin Carl Sims July 17, 1958 – June 22, 2025
Franklin Carl Sims, 66, of Yale, Michigan, passed away on June 22, 2025. Born on July 17, 1958, in Detroit, Franklin was a brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend whose quiet strength and steady presence left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to know him.
Franklin began his career as a draftsman, bringing precision and focus to his work. He later earned a Ph.D. in Business Administration - a testament to his intelligence, determination, and lifelong curiosity.
He was also a licensed pilot who loved flying friends and family through the sky, from bustling city airports to quiet country fields. Whether on the ground or in the air, Franklin lived with confidence, calm, and a deep sense of freedom.
Outside of work, Franklin's passions were wide and unforgettable. He had a deep love for cars and motorcycles - a bond that endured no matter how many batteries he managed to kill. He was a great baker, a fearless chef of atomically spicy Mexican food, and the creator of legendary, melt-your-mouth salsas. He was the heart of epic house parties, the guide on Florida vacations, and a loyal attendee of boat races.
A gentle giant at heart, Franklin had a silky-smooth touch of rhythm on the guitar, playing everything from blues to classic rock with soul and style. He was a great neighbor, a loyal friend, and the kind of man who always showed up - with a joke, a plate, or a perfectly timed riff.
Franklin was best known for three things: cooking, jamming music, and mastering the perfect lines in his lawn. Whether behind a grill, an amp, a mower, or the controls of a plane, he brought care, skill, and pride to everything he did.
He is survived by his siblings: Daniel Sims (Kari), Dreama Closser (Keith), Jodie Sims (Don), and Jerry Sims (Mary). He was a beloved uncle to Renee (Jason), Robin, Sarah, Danny, Dustin, Jake, Rachael, and Ben, and a proud great-uncle to Kenny, Kinlee, Eliza, Franklin, Adrian, Max, Arianna, and Veronica.
Franklin was preceded in death by his father, Franklin Daniel Sims; his mother, Carol Lee (Mayworm) Sims; his brother-in-law, Kenneth R. Closser; his beloved friend John Ozimek; and his cherished K9 companions, Missy and Snickers.
Cremation has taken place. A private memorial will be held by the family. Arrangements entrusted to Jansen Family Funeral Home - Columbiaville. Share memories, condolences, and pictures with the family at www.jansenfuneralhome.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Franklin "Frank" Sims, please visit our Tree Store.