Derrick Gerard "Solo" Sims, 55, was a wonderful man that was loved, cherished, and will be missed. Derrick's story starts in Kansas City, MO on December 20, 1962, the youngest child to Rev. Leslie Sims Sr. and Deloris Sims.

He accepted Christ at an early age while attending Macedonia Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO. Derrick later attended Cleveland Avenue Baptist Church for over 25 years during this time he served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America under the leadership of Pastor Price Ellis. In 1998 he accepted his call from God to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ. Recently he became a member of Friendship Baptist Church. Our father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and mentor received his wings and went home to be with the Lord on February 11, 2018.

He attended Kansas City area schools and was a graduate of Southwest High School Class of 1981. There he was known as a member of the 'International Five.' He then went on to attend the University of Missouri Kansas City where he became a member of the Delta Rho chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc in 1985. To many he was known as Solo. Even after college he continued his lifetime commitment with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc and was an active member of the Beta Lambda chapter. He is now a member of the Omega Chapter. Derrick received his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from University of Phoenix and was looking forward to receiving his Master of Science in Cyber Security at Webster University in May of 2018.

Derrick was a valued employee at Henry Wurst Inc. for over 17 years. His passion and love for people led him to pursue a career as a bus operator for the Kansas City Area Transit Authority for 13 years. Many of his co-workers described him as a KCATA celebrity. You would often find him playing cards, shooting pool or playing dominoes in the employee lounge with fellow co-workers. If you ever competed against him you know he was very competitive. His favorite of these was dominoes (which he was introduced to at the age of 3). He loved his job and most importantly he loved the people with whom he worked with.

Family meant everything to Derrick. His family and friends will have stories to share about him for a lifetime. He went above and beyond to help those he loved. If he cared about you he made sure you knew. Whether that was lending a helping hand, giving you a big hug and kiss on the cheek, attending special events, cooking you his greens, oxtails, or chili, giving you a card or gift, or just simply being that open ear. He was always present no matter what.

Derrick was and still is an amazing father. Anyone who knew Derrick, knew that he loved his girls (Kalia, D'Angela, and Dia). He would do anything to protect them. He always wanted to see a smile on their face, and if you were the cause of a frown be prepared to meet Mr. Sims. He also took great pride in being a Papa to Kyiah, Londynn, Emerson, and Masen.

Derrick had an infectious smile and laugh that would light up the room. He never met a stranger, and always welcomed anyone with open arms. He was a SHARP and FLY dresser. He always kept up with his appearance no matter where he went. He and his father often competed to see who wore the sharpest suits and hats. You would often see him straightening up his father before they would take a picture dressed in their Sunday's best. There was always a competition between the two.

Derrick will be truly missed, but his spirit will live on forever. We are grateful for the years we got to spend with him. We are blessed to have a Guardian Angel that will ensure we keep a smile on our face.

Derrick was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, brother Dwayne Sims, and godparents Napoleon and Esther Smith.

Derrick leaves behind to cherish his memories: his daughters Kalia McKinley of Houston, TX, D'Angela Johnson (Marcus), and Dia Sims; parents Rev. Leslie Sims, Sr. and Deloris Sims; brother Leslie Sims, Jr.; sister Donna Barnes (Hon. Jerome House Rep - 28th District); grandchildren Kyiah, Emerson, Londynn and Masen; the woman with the key to his heart Karen Sims; godsister Ebony Nolden; cousin and confidant Angela Faye Sampson; three lifelong friends Anthony Barnes, Elliott Smith and Rocky Hughes; and his loving uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, and numerous loved ones.

Funeral services Friday, February 23, 11:00 a.m. at Friendship Baptist Church. Interment Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Visitation 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the church. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.