Jewel T. Sims

 LIFE REFLECTIONS 

Jewel Marie Thompson Sims is the oldest daughter born to the union of Arthedus (Twilley) and Walter Thompson, Sr., who both preceded her in death.

Jewel accepted Christ at Olivet Baptist Church in Chicago where she was active in the church choir and Sunday School. Later, she transferred her membership to Ebenezer Lutheran Church where she was a patron for 48 years until its closing. Then, she was briefly a member at First Immanuel Lutheran Church. At the time of her transition, she was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church. Throughout her church ministry in the Lutheran faith, she served in various capacities such as the Council President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Delegate, Alternate Delegate, Women's Ministry, Coordinator of Well Baby Clinic, Director of Community Outreach Ministries for Family Life Program, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School Director and Teacher,

Jewel attended and matriculated from Chicago Public Schools. She graduated from Chicago Vocational High School in three years. Jewel was selected to represent Chicago at the Illinois Girls State Conference where she forged a lifetime friendship of 64 years with Patricia Fitch Walker. Jewel received her Bachelor’s degree from Chicago Teacher College (now known as Chicago State University). She also received certifications as a Medical Technician, GED instructor, and City of Chicago proctor. In addition, she completed postgraduate studies at Concordia University, University of Illinois, and Wright Junior College.

Jewel was a lifetime member of the Chicago Retired Teachers Union. She worked over 30 years at Chicago Public Schools-Lowell School in Humboldt Park as a primary school teacher. She also worked for a number of years at West Side Milton Olive Child Parent Center. Jewel was fondly known by her students as a stern, caring and generous person. She was very organized, a networker, and a great friend to many.  

Throughout her life, Jewel worked as a receptionist, cashier at A & P Grocery, greeter at Midway and O’Hare airports, travel escort, deputy voter’s registrar, election judge, proctor for police exam, and an academic tutor. Additionally, she served as a mentor at the Better Boys Foundation and for unwed parents at the Bobby Wright Health Center, Den mother, and the Mayor’s Advisory Council of Aging.

Jewel was involved in various organizations where she received accolades for her participation and leadership. Most notably, she was a recipient of the City of Chicago’s Outstanding Chicagoan award for her involvement in city government. She served as secretary for many years as well as other leadership roles. Also, she was a member of the National Women of Achievements (NWOA)-Chicago Chapter where she was instrumental with helping high school students obtain collegiate merit scholarships. Additionally, she was a spokesperson for Lutheran’s Women Missionary League. She was a sought out speaker and presenter for her spirituality and Black Lutheran experience.  

Jewel was an avid reader, loved crossword puzzles, collector of African American dolls/ artifacts (painted) statues, journaled daily since the ‘70s (until her eyesight declined in 2021), and a keen traveler.  She enjoyed traveling across the United States, taking Caribbean cruises, and venturing to other countries such as India, Ireland, Italy, Nicaragua, and West Africa, among numerous others.

Jewel was loved and brought joy to every family member and friend. She was cared for by all of her children within their homes and when they no longer could do so, by the staff of Naperville Meadowbrook Manor. Despite her limitations in the end, family and friends continued to visit, sending cards along with thoughts and prayers. “If you ever met Jewel you would remember her. She lived her life to the fullest. She shared her Christianity.”

Jewel, affectionately known as Mama Jewel, transitioned peacefully after a short illness on December 27, 2022.

Jewel was preceded in death by her parents Arthedus (Twilley) and Walter Thompson, Sr. Her brothers: Walter Mose, Walter Jr., Jerome, Al, brother-in-law Myrtis Brooks. Her sisters: Rosie, Alyce, Jo Ann, and sister-in-law, Annette Thompson. 

She leaves to mourn and cherish her memories: Daughter, Valerie (Willie), son, Kevin, and daughter, Leslie (Anthony). Grandchildren: Jarve, Whitney, Wendolyn, Ashley, Brandon, and Dominique. Godchildren: Nancy L. Lewis and John Love. Sisters, Zettye Thompson, Gail Brooks, and sister-in-laws Patricia Thompson and Yvonne Thompson. A special friend, Patricia Walker, bonus daughters Sandral Woods Sullivan and Tiffany Foster. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, and acquaintances.

The Memorial Service, Saturday January 7, 2023 will be Live stream. Press the following link for access to view:   https://youtube.com/@st.paullutheranchurchausti1707

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jewel T. Sims, please visit our floral store.