Raymond Charles Sims III

Raymond “Joe” Charles Sims III, formerly of Chicago Ridge, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday April 14, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona. Joe was born in Evergreen Park, Illinois on February 9, 1965. He is survived by his beloved wife Michelle (nee Cohen), his dear mother Mary (nee McCoppin), siblings Mary (Ed) Scheide, Amy (Kevin) Luckett, David, Dan, Emma (Terry) Sheehan, Katie (Jeff) Partacz, and proud uncle to 15 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Sims Sr, grandparents Ray and Margaret (nee Eckwald) Sims Jr, Harold and Amelia (nee Holmes) McCoppin, and his Uncle Richard McCoppin. Joe graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He was a member of Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 73 for over 10 years. An avid traveler, he visited all 50 states, Germany, France, England, and The Netherlands. Before moving to Tucson, Joe and Michelle lived in Dublin, Ireland. Joe had a wonderful sense of humor, beautiful blue eyes, and a warm smile. He was devoted to his family and friends, tender-hearted, humble, and a hard worker. He loved classic rock, Chicago food (especially Palermo’s pizza), leisurely drives to anywhere, and being with his adored Maltese puppies, Angus and Agnes. The family would like to thank all of Joe’s friends who supported and comforted him, the amazing staff at Saint Vincent’s University Hospital and the American Embassy in Dublin, Ireland; the University of Arizona Cancer Center; and Banner – University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona for their tireless efforts, excellent care, and overwhelming compassion. A special thanks to Dr. Muhammad Husnain and his incredible team. Interment will be at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers and cards, donations are appreciated to the causes closest to Joe, the University of Arizona Cancer Center in Tucson, American Cancer Society, ASPCA, and the Advocate Children’s Heart Institute for Children in Oak Lawn, Illinois.