Yesterday I learned that my lifelong friend, Tom Simms, lost his mother to an eight week battle after a stroke she suffered. I have been friends with Tom since we were in the 1st or 2nd grade. My real first memory of our relationship is from second grade when Tom sat in the desk directly in front of me. Tom was always one of those really good guys and still would do anything to help out a friend.
Mr. and Mrs. Simms are the epitomy of good parents. I grew up with Tom as we would ride our bikes over to one another's house every day. Mr. Simms worked 6 days a week to provide for his family which included Tom and his older brother, Steve, and little sister Monica. Mrs. Simms worked tirelessly at home to provide the best home for her children and husband. They lived a very modest lifestyle while sending their 3 children to Catholic grade school.
Even though I'm sure money was tight, as kids, it seemed the Simms' had everything. Tom and Steve always had the coolest toys, the latest game systems (back then, I think this basically meant they had atari), etc. Tom was taught to work hard by his parents, he was taught respect and discipline.
Mrs. Simms had not changed a bit in the past 30 years that I've known her. She always seemed to be the same. I was fortunate to be able to see her in recent years when she attended her grandson, John's baseball games. John plays in the same league as my son.
Mrs. Simms' passing makes me realize what an impact the parents of my friends have had on me. I had never really considered this before but not only did they impact my friends' lives, they impacted my life.
Thank you for everything Mrs. Simms and especially for making Tommy the man that he has become. May you rest in eternal peace.
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