John Govan Simms Jr. Obituary
We announce the death of John Govan Simms Jr. in Tampa, Florida, born in Miami, Florida, who passed away on August 5, 2026, at the age of 84. John Govan will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of John Govan Simms Jr. to pay them a last tribute.
John Govan will be remembered for the impact he had on the lives of those around him. Friends, family, and colleagues will cherish their memories and the time shared. Those who knew John Govan will remember moments of kindness, warmth, and presence. Though words cannot fully capture his life, the legacy of connections and experiences remains. John Govan’s absence will be deeply felt by those who valued his companionship.
He is survived by: his niece Elizabeth Villanova (Bobby Villanova); his nephew William Counts Jr.; and his great-nephews, Luke Simms Villanova and Jack Grady Villanova.
He dedicated himself to furthering academic research and preservation of the literature of his great grandfather, writer William Gilmore Simms, by donating to the University of Alabama, the University of South Carolina and Stetson University.
