Shelley Lynn Sims

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shelley Lynn Sims. On March 12th, 2021, Shelley lost her long, brave battle with addiction. She may have struggled with her disease but it did not define her. She was a loving mother, nana, daughter, sister and friend. Our family is not whole without her and we will never be the same.

Shelley was born in London and grew up between there and Melbourne, Ontario. She never had the typical upbringing but she managed to make it through some of the most challenging obstacles throughout her life, while touching the hearts of so many people along the way. At a young age, she became a mother and went on to raise three other children that she loved as her own, filling our lives with adventures and amazing memories. Being a mom was what she loved most and anyone who knew her knew of her kids.

It is difficult to capture the life of someone in an obituary, especially for someone whose adult life was largely defined by addiction but she was so much more than that to so many people. She was fierce and strong. She could light up a room with her presence and have people feeling comfortable within minutes. When someone was down, her tender words uplifted their spirits and helped make sure they could push forward to the next day. Shelley was kind, empathetic, giving and would take care of everyone before herself, ensuring their needs were met before her own. Unfortunately this world can be cruel and those traits were not always reciprocated back when she needed it the most.

Shelley wanted to live; she had big hopes and dreams for the future with her family especially those grandbabies. She was still spunky and full of life even with a heart as broken as hers. Shelley was always there for her daughters. Sometimes hard to get ahold of, but she always showed up. She was hopeful of a recovery and had made so many positive changes but the ripple effects of the pandemic and loss of supports set her back.

Oh, how she loved animals especially her best friend Cally who brought a lot of light into her life. There wasn’t a place she would go without her by her side. Her happy place she would say is at the cemetery feeding the deer or at the beach. You would often find her sketching or painting, as those were her hobbies, no matter how the pictures turned out.

Shelley is the beloved daughter of Bruce and Lorna Day. Loving mother of Katrina (Justin) and Chantel. Proud nana of Landyn and Ivey. Also loved by her godmother Angela Spring and her partner Matthew Vock. Dear sister to Sarah (Chad), David (Diana) & Reggie. She is reunited with her loving mother Debbie Deboer (Sims) and grandson Owen.

We are so thankful to the emergency workers and staff at Victoria Hospital that worked so hard to save our mom. Even more grateful to her workers through CMHA, she was grateful for you. We all are.

If you are struggling from addiction or mental health please know that everyday is a new day and each breath is a fresh start. There are so many families that have lost someone to this terrible disease that are praying and cheering for your recovery. It is never too late.

If you are someone who is reading this with judgment, please educate yourself about this disease and the effects it has on both the individual struggling and their loved ones. This is never a choice or due to weakness, no one chooses this. I hope no one has to experience having someone you love struggle with this disease but if you do remember this person deserves your love, empathy and support.

If you work in any of the professions/institutions that people with addiction often pass through and you show them the compassion and respect they deserve, thank you. If instead you just see a “junkie” or liar in front of you rather than a human being with a story and loved ones, please reflect on the job you are there to do. Use kindness and compassion over judgment.

Always stay kind, work to have a heart like Shelley’s.

Visitation for Shelley will be held on Thursday, March 18 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Northview Funeral Chapel and Cremation Centre, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London, with a private family funeral to follow. Registration is required to attend the visitation.* Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Shelley are asked to consider the Canadian Mental Health Association. For information on how to register for Shelley’s visitation, or to leave condolences, please click the links to the left of the obituary.

*Please note: as per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, attendance numbers will be restricted. Please be aware that COVID-19 protocols are in place which may preclude some from being able to attend and masks are mandatory at both indoor and outdoor services.