Patrolman Billy Wayne Simms

TO: Melissa Simms DeClue: I often visit this site and remember growing up with your Dad. Five, brand new little homes were built for returning veterans after WWII and we were lucky enough to have the Simms family as next door neighbors. My Dad and your Grandfather Arthur were close. We were all close, just like family. As I said in my original post, your Dad was 'outnumbered' on that little street by girls but he was so good natured about it all. Your Dad was one year younger than me and the same age as my sister, Jan. Here is a funny memory for you: Your Dad's family got new cellar put in and your Dad decided we'd run a neighborhood store out of that cellar. My Dad owned a small trucking company and the main thing he hauled was candy and gum -- so we were well supplied with merchandise to sell to the other neighbor kids. Your Dad was the 'boss' of the store and we girls helped. He named it BUD'S store. That kept us busy all one summer until we got tired of being tied down. haha.

We rode bikes, we played softball, tether ball, and we all went to Wheeler Elem. school together. He was 'protective' over his sister Peggy and also my sister and me. He was kind and GOOD even as a young boy.

I hope you and your family are doing well. As I get older, I cherish those childhood memories more. I keep in touch with Peggy. I am sorry I've never had the opportunity to meet you.

Blessings to you. Joann VanCuren Bell

Joann Bell
Childhood friend

January 30, 2021