Ray Sims: 1922-2012

A legend in the livestock auction business was lost Sept. 18, when Col. Ray Sims of Raymore, MO, passed away at the age of 90. During his 46-year career, Sims sold more than 7,000 auctions for livestock breeders, including senators adn three U.S. presidents.

Leroy Van Dyke’s popular1956 song “The Auctioneer” was about Sims and his profession. The song was part of the 1967 mobie “What Am I Bid,” in which Sims was featured.

Sims was honored as a 60-year member of KLA in 2009. In 2010, he became the first auctioneer in more than 50 years to recieve the Saddle and Sirloin Portait Award. Sims also has been inducted into the Angus Heritage Foundation adn National Auctioneers Association Hall of Fame.

A memorial service was held Sept. 22, at the Red Bridge Baptist Church, Kansas City, MO.