A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of Clarence “Chip” Simms, Jr.
“The road to success is paved by steps of preparation. Remain one step ahead -Chip Simms
Saturday, August 20, 2016 10:30 am
St. Raymond & St. Leo the Great Catholic Church 2916 Paris Avenue New Orleans, LA 70119 Reverend Rodney Armstrong S.S.J., Officiant
Obituary Clarence “Chip” Simms, Jr. June 15, 1970 – August 12, 2016 Clarence “Chip” Simms, Jr. passed away unexpectedly at the age of 46 on August 12, 2016 at his home in New Orleans, LA. He is the son of Velta Haynes Simms and the late Clarence Joseph Simms, Sr. and brother of Kelly Simms Batiste. He attended McDonogh 35 Senior High School and then matriculated to Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. where he earned his Bachelors in Accounting. He graduated from both institutions with high academic honors. A talented athlete, his interest in sports began at the age of 6 at Milne Playground, where he played football, baseball, and what ultimately became his passion, basketball. He was the captain of the Roneagles, his high school basketball team, where he first wore #20. At Georgetown University, Chip spent years playing in the intramural league, where he often bragged about the many games his team won. He would later join the Hoyas basketball team as a walk on. His passion for the sport fostered a career in coaching at Georgetown, the University of Memphis and the University of New Orleans. As an adult, his love for the game continued through his time as a member of five-time champion “The Rule Nation” basketball team. He spent countless hours talking trash, debating or just relaxing with his fellow teammates and other competitors under “the tree” after each game. After graduating from Georgetown, Chip moved to New York to join Ernst & Young, eventually becoming a Certified Public Accountant. However, corporate America created too many boundaries for his free spirit. While applying to journalism school, he was presented with an opportunity to take advantage of the real estate boom in Atlanta, GA. He and his business partner, who was also a childhood friend, successfully developed a residential subdivision. After his time in Atlanta, Chip passed the Series 7 exam, and moved to Fort Lauderdale, FL to work as a stock trader. He later returned to New Orleans and joined the team at Seaside Behavioral Centers, where his leadership yielded three additional centers opening.
Chip worked hard and played hard, living life to the fullest. He enjoyed spending quality time with family over a competitive game of Taboo, the annual Essence Music Festival with his friends, playing basketball with The Rule, and weekend strolls on Magazine St. with his fiancée, Charlene. Chip leaves to cherish his memory his loving fiancée, Charlene D. Carthon, his mother, Velta Haynes Simms, his sister, Kelly Simms Batiste (Joseph), the joy of his life, his niece, Clarke J. Batiste and nephew, Joseph L. Batiste, IV. He is also survived by Brandon Theard and his uncles John Haynes (Wanda), George Haynes (Yolanda), Joseph Haynes (Denise), Taylor, Frank, and Mike Haynes and Orson Adams and his aunts Mary Haynes-Smith (Linton), Leverne Scott (Arthur), Ophelia Coleman (E.C.), Jeanie Adams and a host of cousins and family members.
Order of Mass Obituary
Heather L. Haynes
Reflections
Kevin Edwards, Kaya Henderson, Graylin Warner, Jennifer Bush, Mary Haynes-Smith
Entrance Hymn
“Just a Closer Walk with Thee”
Greetings
Emeka Dibia
Rev. Rodney Armstrong, S.S.J.
Placing of the Baptism Pall
Kelly S. Batiste, Charlene Carthon
Opening Prayer
Rev. Rodney Armstrong, S.S.J.
Liturgy of the Word First Reading
Wisdom 3:1-6, 9
Brandon M. Haynes, M.D.
Psalm 23
Emeka Dibia
Responsorial Psalm Response:
“The Lord is my Shepherd; there is nothing I shall want”
Second Reading
2 Corinthians 5:1, 6-10
Linton Smith, II
Gospel Acclamation Gospel and Homily
Rev. Rodney Armstrong, S.S.J.
Prayer of the Faithful
Response: “Lord hear our prayer”
Liturgy of the Eucharist Presentation of Gifts Offertory Hymn
Megan Haynes, Shaundra Haynes “Goin’ Up Yonder”
The Lord’s Prayer
Emeka Dibia All
Communion Communion Hymn Meditation
“Jesus is Love” ”Wind Beneath my Wings”
Closing Prayer Final Rite of Commendation
Emeka Dibia Emeka Dibia
Reflections…
I remember meeting Chip during Minority Student Weekend at Georgetown. He was someone that you wanted to be friends with because he knew EVERYONE. When I got to know him, I realized why everyone liked him. He could go from clowning you to having an intellectual conversation in 60 seconds. He would keep all your secrets, make you laugh with his country sayings and give you his honest opinion. I would speak and text with him over the years, and when I saw him last in New Orleans in 2014, it was like 1991 all over again. He was still the same likable person who didn’t miss a beat. He will be missed, but his memory will continue to bring a smile and a laugh to all who knew him! ~Andrea Reid-Autry, Friend
The first thought that comes to mind when I think about Chip is that he was nothing short of a force of nature – an unstoppable, energetic force, and unchallengeable force. His indelible presence and personality will never be forgotten.
Chip. Clarence Joseph Simms, Jr. You can’t say one name without the other because if you knew a part of him, you knew all of him. I’m from West Virginia, but I know about the Roneagles, who Cubby is, the public education system in New Orleans, how hard it is to start a charter school, The Rule, the Chicago kid Georgetown might recruit, and the struggles of trying to provide care and mental health to the forgotten masses. And I’ve eaten the most delicious gumbo and crawfish etouffee shipped in ice and Styrofoam on a Southwest buddy pass. All because of Chip. And in those times when you felt like it was you against the world, if Chip was near, you knew it was the world against two. He was an ambassador for all of us to all of us. Intellect, humor, charm, energy, compassion – Chip, sometimes, had the world on a string without the world even knowing it. We talked about death a few times, and I’ll always remember his encouraging words to me: “Don’t cry because life here is over, man; smile because it happened!” So, for him, everyday I’ve been trying to make sure that my smiles conquer my tears. To his wonderful family, I say thank you for sharing him with us. To Chip – I know where to find you when I get there. And I know you’ll be holding down “Next.” ~Chris Handy, Friend
Chip and Joey were inseparable and their relationship transcends time and space and has shaped the men they became. He was not just a friend, but family. A brother to my husband. Their lives were intrinsically woven together. Every milestone, celebration, challenge – all of the ups and downs of life – Chip was there as a confidant, friend, supporter, and counselor. Not a day went by that Chip and Joey didn’t talk, share stories, dreams of the future and life plans. What I admired most about Chip is that he had a heart of gold. He was vulnerable, sensitive and a passionate communicator. He was our son’s biggest fan and supporter. Chip poured his soul into our son, Christian. He loved him like he was his very own. Chip nurtured and developed Christian, spent quality time with him, and shared stories with him that will never be forgotten. Chip gave a piece of himself to Christian that he will carry for the rest of his life. Chip is, has been and will always be an inextricable part of our lives. With love and heartfelt condolences, ~ Joey and Katrina Brown, Friends
I met Chip in college during a game of dominoes in Village A at Georgetown. It was there that I learned about his devotion to his mom, sister, and family. Chip would hold court with tales of “35”, the “Zut”, and basketball games in the Desire Projects. I liked him straight away. In Skip (as I called him), I found a kindred spirit. I felt a kinship with him that is only usually found among people who have seen some things growing up. Skip was a pretty fella, but not a pretty boy. He was a dude’s dude. In short, I cut for Chip. As I settled down, got married, and started a family, I lived vicariously through Skip’s adventures. From the Georgetown years, to Brooklyn, to New Orleans, back to DC, through Europe, Atlanta, Miami and back to New Orleans. Through him, I learned about coaching, real estate, going on tour, artist management, day trading, charter schools, and outpatient facilities management. Every few months or so, over the past 20 years, we’d visit, call or text and we’d pick up the conversation as though no time had passed. Sometimes we’d talk business, basketball, politics, and music, but mostly we’d talk “ish” – big “ish” – and it was glorious. Chip was not just a talker, he was an indefatigable doer. He was always a champion, never a hater. He was genuinely interested in people, ideas, culture, and had a boundless energy as he pressed through life. Throughout all of life’s stages there was a rare consistency in his spirit. God really smiled on Chip. It hurts that He has called Chip home. As a believer, my faith demands that I accept that Chip is in a better place. My only regret is that I never prayed with my friend. So, I will do that here: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…”. Godspeed, Will Griffin, Friend
I have a very hard time coming up with one memory/story of Chip. There are soooo many good times that we’ve shared. Even though we didn’t maintain a frequent and direct connection after college, whenever we did see each other or talk, it was like I’d just seen him yesterday. The brotherhood, the loyal friendship and connection would never be lost no matter the time or distance. Chip’s biggest impact on me was the fact that he never apologized for being himself. He was one of the realest people I knew. ~Robert Churchwell, Friend
Chips Simms was a great friend. When I told Chip I was in negotiations to buy a yoga studio in New Orleans, he decided it was time for him to see what hot yoga was all about. For six months, he had said he was coming to take my yoga class, but when I said I was expanding my practice to include being a yoga entrepreneur, Chip prioritized getting to the studio. Now, yoga wasn’t his thing before that class and it certainly didn’t become his chosen form of exercise after, but he gave it his all that day. HE also asked to look at the yoga studio’s financials and then reviewed them thoroughly for me. After completing his analysis, he told me, “Sometimes the best deal is no deal.” Chip was like that – an all-in kind of guy. He enjoyed life to the fullest, and at the same time, was about getting business done. He could have you laughing and sneak in a great finance tip without you even knowing. I’m grateful to call him my friend. ~Lauren Buggs, Friend
My name is Darrel Owens. I was Chip’s first recruit at Georgetown University. He was my big brother, mentor, and most important of all, my friend. Chip was the first person to tell me that I could be successful if I didn’t make it to the NBA. He always pushed me to be the best person I could be on and off the court and to take advantage of all my opportunities. Because of Chip, I was able to live out my dream of playing D-1 basketball and receive two degrees from Georgetown. That’s the type of person Chip was – always helping and caring for others. I will always remember and love this man for what he did for me and my family. ~Darrel Owens, Friend
As some people journey through life, they leave footprints wherever they go. Footprints of joy and laughter, courage and compassion, humor and inspiration, joy and pain. Chip, everyone is experiencing the latter right now, the joy of sharing life with you, and the pain of losing you too soon. Even though you’re gone, we will always look back and clearly see the trail you’ve left behind – the voice, the greetings, the laughter, that smile, the conversations, the disagreements (we all have at least one, lol), the friendship, the brotherhood, the love, but most of all, you left us all better, because of CHIP!!! WE LOVE YOU, WE OUTCHEA!!!! ~Jared “Chief” Chenevert, Friend
Reflections…
Chip was such a bright, bold and a totally free spirit. He was the kind of friend that you’d call or hear from even after a long time, and it would turn into a long, wideranging catching up, like no time had ever passed at all. As his friend, he made you feel that the distance meant so little when the friendship meant so much. Wicked smart, charming and fearless, he always dished out a little bit of his own courage and boldness to share. H3 made you believe that we can do whatever we want…and no one can stop us. His excitement about life was infectious. He would say, “I ain’t busy working; I’m busy living!” Chip was a great supporter, sometimes ass-kicker, and an armchair philosopher – but above all, he was nothing but the surest, most authentic brand of friend.
In the end, his heart failed him, but not before he shared every bit of himself and his heart with those he loved. Rest in your power, my dear friend… Fonda Sutton, Friend
This week marks 28 years since I (and many others in the 1988 Freshman Family of Georgetown University) first met Chip. His last name begins with “Sim” and mine begins with “Smi”, so our seats were next to each other during orientation. I didn’t realize it then, but at that moment, Chip became my mentor in the unbridled expression of love. Chip was wide open. A man who unapologetically embraced Karyn White’s “Superwoman” as his jam. A homeboy who didn’t just greet you but celebrated you when he called your name from across Healy Lawn. I wondered where this exuberant love came from. He learned it at home. In fact, when I met Chip, I noticed his legendary male beauty, and I had to ask him: “Do you have a sister?” It was a knuckle-headed question to ask. Superficial. But, I’m glad I asked because he showed me, in words and actions for nearly 30 years, that his love for Kelly and his family was bottomless. I will never forget the day-to-day ways that Chip exhibited this love that he honed at home. He always stayed in touch, not just as a habit, but a sacrament. (The character limitations of texting bubble were no match for Chip.) He shared his dreams and fears and listened to my own. It was never a risk, but an act of communion. He was quick to dole out a hug, not only to provide comfort, but also to express gratitude for being able to share this life together. I am sad that I can no longer embrace my friend, but the love I feel for him and from him reminds me that Chip was a master at his craft. I will live by his example. God bless Chip. And God bless the alphabet. ~ Yaphet Smith, Friend
Chip’s memory has so, so much depth. He’s a true original and a one-of-a-kind dude that defies description or definition. I can hear him now helping me along saying something like “My dawg…Don’t define me and limit my existence with words. Don’t put boundaries on my life and my relationships. Let me be everything I am.” He’s an artist on the court and a poet with the pen. His eloquent, in-the-moment, philosophical freestyles on love, life, and relations flowed like poetry. His infectious energy was like gravity pulling you in. From D-101 to DOPG, I had a front row seat to it all. From “Love is a myth” to finding real love, I had a front row seat to it all. My dawg didn’t live the longest life, but he most definitely lived a life that most long for; I’m a witness and the legend, the lore of Chip Simms is true. Without a doubt, we are all better people and truly blessed for having shared a moment in time with Chip. It hurts that we can no longer enjoy his physical presence, but know that he is now exploring and mastering his new spiritual plane and making it a better place. My dawg, my closest friend, my best friend, my brother. I miss you dearly and I love you always! ~MarKeith Allen, Friend
I said “Chip, I need a run.” He found us a gym. Despite his gimpy knee, he said, “Let’s go put up some shots.” And we did. We ate, we laughed, we talked basketball, film, building, networking as brothers and friends (as we always did). Three weeks earlier, he took time out of his Sunday to help me find the best place to live while I was in town. He found me a barber, he took me to eat in the Marigny, he washed my clothes, and brought them to me. Last week and the week before, he hung with me on the set, met the crew, met the cast, until the wee hours of the morning. I put him on camera and he had a ball. That night, I drove him to his car and told him to drive safely. He said, “No doubt, fam. Get some rest.” I assured him I would. I never imagined that would be the last time I’d see him. Chip was a great dude, a great friend, an intellectual, a competitor, a great debater and trash-talker with a great sense of humor and compassion. I will miss him and the collaborations we spoke of having. Rest in power, to the leader of Team Fresh. ~ Malcolm Lee, Friend
Dear Big Brother Clarence " Chip " Simms, What's up kid! I was awakened at 4:20 a.m. on August 12, 2016, with a call that you had passed away. At first, I was extremely mad that God almighty had taken my big brother, my friend, my boy away from me. After I hung up the phone I immediately thought that God doesn't make any mistakes and that the good die young. Big Brother, you were a great one! We’ve shared a bond ever since you walked into my home on Mandolin St. and asked me if I was eating my "Wheaties" cereal. From that point on, you took the role of being my big brother. You were always there for me with advice to keep me focused on the main goals in life and to never let me settle, always pushing me to be the best Patrick I could be. For that I thank you Chip! I've been sitting to your right riding in the passenger’s seat since I was 9 yrs. old when you and Ruben or Joey would pick me up, in that black Honda Accord, bumping that Tupac as we headed to the gym for you guys to play ball around the city. Since then, you have been teaching me the rights and wrongs of this world as you were going through them. You didn’t want me to make the same mistakes you made and to be better than you. I want you to know I remember every conversation, lesson or example you ever taught me and I use them till this day. Now that you have passed I'm ready to take over that driver’s seat with the help of Brandon to lead the second generation down the right path, as you have done for us all for so long. I want my sister and all my cousins to know that you asked about them and wanted to know how each and everyone one of them were doing every Saturday when we were together. You were always family first and if we needed you for anything, you were there for us no matter what! I want Charlene to know that you truly loved her and that I've never seen you happier and freer than when you were with her!! I want your mama to know that she raised a great man, so great, that God needed him more than we needed him.
He took you from us earlier than expected to solve some bigger issues. Just know, God, Chip is always right so be ready for a debate!! I will let Kelly know that her big brother loved her and talked about her, Clarke and Jay all the time with a huge smile on your face. We are celebrating your life on her birthday. You have always been the greatest gift to her. You are now in heaven looking over your niece and nephew who could not ask for a better guardian angel. I know all of your aunts and uncles are proud of you and I know you loved each and every one of them! All your friends know no one enjoyed life or lived life to the fullest more than you. So we will not cry but smile and celebrate your life. You were a great friend. Chip, I love you and a part of me is going with you!! In honor of you, I will continue to strive for excellence and enjoy life to the fullest!! Rest in Peace Chip!! One last time from your li’l brother “We Out Chea”!!!! ~Pat Haynes, Cousin
When I think of Chip, I think of someone who lifted you up with his energy and sense of humor. He cared so much for his friends and went out of his way to check on them. The love and caring that he portrayed for others, was so genuine. The world and Georgetown community lost a good man, but we honor his life by making sure he lives on through our loving and caring actions towards others. ~Alonzo Mourning, Friend
Pa l l b e a r e r s Travis Berry, Sr. David Garcia Donald Price Gerald Rooks
Talmadge Scott Sullivan L. Sykes, Jr. Dontroy Thorne, Sr. David Williams, Jr.
H o n o r a r y Pa l l b e a r e r s E.C. Coleman George Haynes Joseph Haynes Taylor Haynes Arthur Scott
Frank Haynes John Haynes Mike Haynes Reuben Henry Linton Smith
With Gr atitude & Love The Simms family would like to express our sincere appreciation for the outpouring of care, concern, and comfort during our time of sorrow. The genuine display of love and support has encouraged us all. Your emotional generosity has been uplifting and is a fitting testament to the love, life, and legacy of Chip.
Arrangements
Interment
D. W. Rhodes Funeral Home
Mt. Olivet Cemetery & Mausoleum
3933 Washington Avenue New Orleans, Louisiana 70125
4000 Norman Mayer Ave New Orleans, Louisiana 70122
Repast National Association of Letter Carriers 4200 Elysian Fields Avenue New Orleans, LA 70122 Program Design: Our Celebrations of Life (504) 453-2186 * ourcelebrationsoflife@gmail.com