Longtime Educator Bonny Faye Sims Passes Away at 79

Sims dedicated over 35 years to teaching and supporting military families in Virginia

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Bonny Faye Sims, a 79-year-old resident of Norfolk, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026. Sims had a long career as a substitute school teacher and served as a Navy ombuds liaison, positively impacting countless students and colleagues over the years. She is survived by her daughter, son-in-law, sister, and brothers, and will be remembered for her lifelong commitment to education and her family.

Why it matters

Sims' passing marks the end of an era for a dedicated educator who spent decades shaping young minds and supporting military families in Virginia. Her legacy highlights the important role that teachers and community leaders play in enriching the lives of those around them.

The details

Bonny Faye Sims earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education with a minor in Psychology and Religion. She devoted 35 years of her life as a substitute school teacher and served as a Navy ombuds liaison between command leadership and military families. Sims was preceded in death by her parents and husband, and is survived by her daughter, son-in-law, sister, and brothers.

  • Bonny Faye Sims passed away on February 1, 2026.
  • Sims was born on April 6, 1946 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
  • A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.

The players

Bonny Faye Sims

A 79-year-old resident of Norfolk, Virginia who had a 35-year career as a substitute school teacher and served as a Navy ombuds liaison.

Carra Sims

Bonny Faye Sims' cherished daughter.

Reeshad Dalal

Carra Sims' son-in-law.

Gloria Alston

Bonny Faye Sims' older sister.

Edgar Lane

Bonny Faye Sims' younger brother.

Preston Lane

Bonny Faye Sims' younger brother.

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What’s next

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Oman Funeral Home in Chesapeake, Virginia.

The takeaway

Bonny Faye Sims' lifelong dedication to education and her family legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her. Her passing marks the end of an era for a beloved community leader who positively impacted countless lives over her 35-year teaching career.