Gayle M. Sims, 69, of Charleston, South Carolina, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Born on April 25, 1957, in Spartanburg, SC, Gayle was the daughter of the late Pearl (Benson) Missel and the late L. G. Missel.

For more than 60 years, Gayle was a devoted member of Lutheran Church of Redeemer, where her faith shaped every aspect of her life. She found great joy in serving both her church and her community, always willing to lend a helping hand. Her commitment to sharing God’s love extended far beyond Charleston, as she answered the call to serve as a missionary in Tanzania, Africa. This experience greatly shaped her life and her servant heart.

Above all else, Gayle cherished her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, a caring mother, and a proud grandmother. She created a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. She celebrated every milestone and offered comfort through every challenge. Her kind spirit, generous heart, and steadfast encouragement will remain with her family forever.

In addition to her parents, Gayle is preceded in death by her son, Christopher Sims and her brother, Louis George Missel, III.

Gayle is survived by her husband, Wayne Sims; son, Brett Sims; daughter, Hope Guffey (Dave); and grandchildren: Eric Sims, Grace Sims, Harper Guffey and Skylar Guffey.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 1:00 pm - 2:00 PM, at Lutheran Church of Redeemer, 714 Riverdale Drive Charleston, SC 29407. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM at Redeemer. A private interment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Neighbors Together, 2105 Cosgrove Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405 or online at Neighbors Together.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, (843) 722-8371.