Maude Sims, 91, of Cunningham, Kentucky, passed away on January 4, 2026, at Mercy Health Compassus in Paducah. Maude was born on June 26, 1934, to the late Earley and Ivy DeJarnatt.
A lifelong member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Maude’s faith was the foundation of her life. She lived her beliefs daily through quiet service, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to God and family.
Family always came first for Maude. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, where there was always room for one more at the table. She was known for the large family gatherings she lovingly hosted, preparing meals for everyone and making sure no one ever left hungry. Supper was always hot and ready at 4:30, a simple tradition that reflected the care, consistency, and love she poured into her family.
Maude found joy in quilting, crocheting, and gardening, creating beauty and comfort with her hands. Her husband was truly the love of her life, and their bond was the heart of her home. Growing up, Maude was raised in a household with her six siblings, and there was always a houseful of family and friends. That early sense of togetherness shaped the welcoming spirit she carried throughout her life.
Maude Sims will be remembered for her steadfast faith, generous heart, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy lives on through the family she loved so deeply.
Maude is survived by her two daughters, Valerie Davis of Cunningham and Libby Keller of Paducah; one sister, Jo June Woodford of Blandville; two granddaughters, Whitney Marie Keller of Paducah and Taylor Ivy Davis of Bardwell; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, William Howard Sims; two sisters, Velma Arington and Dorothy Solomon; three brothers, Leon DeJarnatt, Glenford DeJarnatt, and Eugene DeJarnatt; and her parents.
Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 pm, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell with Dan Bowles and Glenn Reid officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Cunningham.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the service time of 12:00 pm on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Mercy Health Hospice with Compassus, 1530 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah, KY, 42003, or Bethlehem Baptist Church, PO Box 468, Cunningham, KY, 42035.
Share a memory or leave an encouraging message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
