Linda Sims (Dyrda)

Linda Lee Sims (Dyrda), 79, of Sterling Heights, MI, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025. Linda was the youngest of three children of the late William George Lee III and Helen Catherine Lee (Barr). Linda is preceded in death by her loving husband of 25 years, James Vernon Sims, Jr. She is survived by her three children John Dyrda, James Dyrda (married to Wendy), Amy Bauman (nee Dyrda, married to Jason); 5 grandchildren Kristine D'Herde, Samantha Blay (nee Dyrda; married to Jeff), Bryce Bauman, Andrew Dyrda, Graham Bauman; and 3 great grandchildren Colton Marino, Kamden Marino, and Owen Blay. She is preceded in death by her sister Nancy Kunselman (nee Lee), brother Ronald Lee, and brother-in-law Robert Kunselman. Linda is survived by her sister-in-law Patricia Lee, many nieces, nephews, and dear friend David Magreta. Linda was born on November 9, 1945 in Detroit, Michigan. She graduated from South Lake High School. She married Ronald Dyrda in 1964. They lived in St. Clair Shores where they raised their three children John, James, and Amy. She attended cosmetology school. Also, she attended Macomb Community College to pursue a business degree. She worked as administrative assistant in the medical field for many years. She belonged the American Business Women’s Association. She was the first woman member of the Clinton River Boat Club. She was a member of Lakeview High School’s Auto Shop Club. She was affectionately called Mrs. D. She worked more than 12 years as an administrative assistant for law enforcement agencies, Macomb Automotive Theft Squad (MATS) and County of Macomb Enforcement Team (COMET). Also, she volunteered for the Macomb County Sheriff’s Marine Division where she met her husband Jim. Linda enjoyed traveling with her husband Jim. Linda was a classic movie fan. She particularly liked watching musicals with Danny Kaye and Julie Andrews. Linda was a crafter. She made many silk flower arrangements, even constructed arrangements for an entire wedding parties. You would often find her knitting, crocheting, needlepointing, or making jewelry. Linda had a love of cars, particularly older classic cars. Linda loved to read, especially Amish fiction. Linda found companionship with her cats Evie, Sarah, and Emma. Linda loved to learn and try new things, whether that be a new recipe or pattern. The joy of Linda’s life was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Michigan Animal Rescue League (marl.org) in honor of her love of animals and her cats. Visitation will take place at Mandziuk & Sons Funeral Home, 3801 18 Mile Rd., Sterling Heights, MI 48314, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Family visitation will be from 4-5 p.m., with visitors welcome from 5-7 p.m.

Linda Sims (Dyrda)

November 9, 1945 - January 30, 2025