Glaston Ellick “Breeze” Sims, a longtime Boynton Beach barber, died Sept. 30 at age 97. A celebration of his life was held at St. Joseph Episcopal Church, where family and friends shared stories about the influence he had on the community.
For 60 years, Sims worked behind a barber’s chair in Boynton Beach. Family members and customers said he was as much a confidant as a barber. He knew who was struggling, who needed encouragement and what was happening around town. He retired in 2016.
Ricky Petty said he first sat in Sims’ chair at age 10, and he described a shop where advice was given freely along with haircuts. Sims’ son Guarn said his father never spoke badly about anyone and treated people with care regardless of who they were.
Sims was born in the Bahamas and raised in Boynton Beach. He graduated from Carver High School in 1949, served four years in the U.S. Air Force and then attended Florida A&M University before returning home to become a barber. He trained in 1954 and worked under the Rev. Otha Adams before opening his own shop on Seacrest Boulevard in 1972.
His sons reflect his influence. Javaro Sims became Delray Beach’s police chief, and Guarn Sims is an educator. Survivors also include his wife, Evelyn Underwood Sims, 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
Sims was preceded in death by his late wife, Carolyn.
