Ella Mary Sims Mural
Words like maverick, trailblazer, heroine & legend have been used to describe Dr. Ella Mary Sims. Born in Sumner, Mississippi on December 24, 1923, she confessed a dedication for Christ at the age of 9 and was baptized in the Mississippi River. From that day forward she lived for Christ. After losing a stillborn child, burying her firstborn child and then first husband, she sank into a major depression. Her physician encouraged her to take a vacation, so she went to visit her family in Grand Rapids. Upon arrival she noticed the plight of the city, rolled up her sleeves, and went to work as a community leader. Passionately living her faith, Dr. Ella Mary Sims advocated improving the lives of people across Grand Rapids. Dr. Sims led a remarkable life committed to service, family, and faith. Ella Mary Sims Deeper Dive
Dr. Ella Mary Sims broke ground becoming the first African American women with a column in the Grand Rapids Press. Dr. Sims was a founding member of the Grand Rapids Women’s Resource Center and she served with a number of notable organizations including the PTA, YMCA, Salvation Army, Right to Life and Dwelling Place. Her work at Aquinas College helped to increase the number of African American students by providing the direct the support needed to create a warm welcoming environment which fostered an optimal learning experience. In addition, Dr Sims assisted with breaking ground with the Sheldon Complex and Campau Commons. Dr. Sims’ passionate advocacy within the Grand Rapids School District is documented in City Within a City. Learn More: Learn More about the live of Ella Mary Sims by reading her Obituary HereElla Sims Oral History Interview by Grand Rapids Women’s History Council did a Oral History Interview with Ella Mary Sims
