Saturday, September 07, 2019 – A Tribute to a Stranger

Saturday, September 07, 2019 – A Tribute to a Stranger

I have just returned from a visitation for a total stranger’s Homegoing Celebration.

Mr. Albert (Al) Lee Sims was born on October 16, 1941 was a graduate of E. A. Kemp High School in Bryan, Texas. After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force and served two terms in Vietnam.

Upon his return he became a successful lawyer working for the Internal Revenue Service in Seattle. But then…

The traumas and demons associated with PTSD took over his life. He spent his remaining years sleeping on the streets of Bryan by choice. He became phobic about indoors and felt safer on the streets. He became a fixture in downtown Bryan, sweeping the sidewalks, talking to people on First Fridays and just being a nice person.

All donated by Hillier’s Funeral Home.

And so today organizations such as The First Methodist Church of Bryan, Hillier’s Funeral Home, the City of Bryan, the Patriot Riders, the Commandant of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, an Honor Guard of Aggie Cadets and others; plus residents of the Brazos Valley honor Mr. Al Sims today with his Homegoing Celebration.

Patriot Guard to escort funeral possession to Bryan Cemetery

Now THAT is a slide show!

Rest in Peace, Al.

Pray for our veterans and their families.