Empty Saddle Arlyn Simms, 1937 – 2017

story by John South

Arlyn Simms passed from this earth on May 23rd in Huntsville, Texas. After months under doctors care, in and out of the hospital, they ran out of options and sent him home under Hospice care. He was surrounded by people who loved him at his passing.
At first I was saddened by our loss. Then I thought, “Why am I sad?” Arlyn lived a good life and most of the time, ‘he did it his way’. He left behind a worn out body that went many miles more than it was designed to do, but he never stopped trying. Today he is suffering no pain as he lives in Heaven with Jesus Christ his Lord and Savior. I’m sure when he reached those Golden Gates he was told, ‘your entry fees are paid, come on in’!
Arlyn loved his family…four daughters and a son, and the love of his life, Carol Stevenson. He strived to raise productive responsible children to adulthood and for that reason sometimes they didn’t always see eye-to-eye. However, they all made amends before his passing; he left this world knowing they loved him and they knew he loved them.
Arlyn had a heart of gold. Some people might question that, but I know he did. If you were his friend, he had your back. He said what he meant, and meant what he said. He would give you the shirt off his back, lend his truck, trailer or horses if you needed help and do things for you he wouldn’t do for himself.
After many years of raising a family, teaching school, and working construction jobs to make ends meet he finally got the chance to do what he dreamed of doing… rodeo.
As most people who knew him would agree, Arlyn was a fierce competitor in calf roping, ribbon roping and team roping (heeler). His many years of dedication showed as he has a basement full of trophy saddles, buckles and other awards to numerous to mention. It didn’t come easy for him, but a strong work ethic and perseverance paid off. Arlyn rode great horses…they might not have fit everyone, but they most definitely fit him. During his rodeo years, few people realized the body pain he suffered with constantly, which sometimes could have contributed to his grumpiness.
Carol and Arlyn spent many years and miles together rodeoing with Senior Pro Rodeo. They were both champions and worked hard to attain perfection. Simply put, they were both winners. They managed to build a strong loving relationship while both were serving on the board of directors, not an easy task to say the least. Suffice to say, they often had different opinions on what was right but both of them always wanted what was best for the good of the association. The association rewarded both of their efforts and dedication by inducting them into the Hall of Fame.
Arlyn offered advice over the years, much of which people weren’t ready to hear… as chances are he was right. He gave it because he cared, that’s what friends do. He had an innate ability to read a person. Obviously, that wasn’t well received at times and made some people quite nervous. Arlyn was my friend and I loved him like a brother. I’m hoping his Spirit will be around to keep giving me advice and encouragement when I need it.
We’ll meet again someday…

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