Frederick Sims, a native of Dallas, died Friday, March 4, after a performance for the Texas A&M University System Chancellor and other officials who were visiting the campus. Sims, 20, died of heart failure. According to band members, after marching from the New Gym, where the performance was held, Sims collapsed in the band hall. Jewel Dingle, a freshman biology major and band member, said, “Due to the hard work it takes to march in the Storm, it is not unusual that a student would be out of breath after marching. They’re tired.”
“Once the band saw that this wasn’t a normal case, the directors and staff went into action to quickly help revive him.”
Sims’ funeral were held March 11 at True Lee Baptist Church in Dallas. In attendance was Texas A&M University Chancellor Bob McTeer, George Edwards, director of The Marching Storm Band, Rev. Charles Lewter, dean of the Johnson-Phillips All Faiths Chapel, Dr. Doris Price, associate vice president of student affairs, Larry Raab, and Lettie Raab, director of University College.
In remarks, McTeer stated, “I did not know Fred personally, but I felt honored that he volunteered to perform when I came to visit PVAMU.”
The percussion section, The BOX, performed at the funeral and presented the family with a plaque, Sims’ BOX shirt, and a snare drum.
Sims leaves to cherish his memories his parents Frederick and Jacqueline Sims; brother Delton R. Sims; sister Ivy Sims; two nephews, Dalin and Davien; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.