Help Us Lay Dustie to Rest with Love and Honor

No one thinks they’re going to die at 45. We all believe we have more time. Yet nearly half of adults in the U.S. don’t have life insurance to cover funeral expenses—and heartbreakingly, my sister, Dustie Sims, fell into that statistic.

On September 20, 2025, our family’s world was turned upside down when Dustie suddenly passed away after choking at the dinner table. Her loss was as shocking as it was devastating. Now, with very limited time, we are scrambling to arrange a funeral service worthy of the beautiful life Dustie lived. We are aiming for a Monday, September 29th service, which leaves us only days to raise the funds needed.

Dustie was so much more than the way she left us. She was a bright light in Bedford, Indiana, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Born on November 10, 1979, Dustie grew up filling every room with laughter, joy, and her unforgettable smile.

She lived a life of connection and community. Dustie was deeply involved in Lawrence County Special Olympics, a cherished participant in the First Chance Day Program, and a devoted member of White River Baptist Church. She had a passion for basketball, cheerleading, track and field, dancing, and singing—and if you ever heard her belt out a song she memorized after a single listen, you’d never forget it. Dustie had a gift for remembering every birthday, making each person feel seen, valued, and loved. Her kindness and energy made her unforgettable.

She leaves behind her mother Joy, her father Dennis, her siblings Travis, Cory, April, Chad, Tisha, Levi, and Keelie, her grandparents Joe and Presing Stannard, and countless nieces and nephews who adored their “Aunt Dustie.” Though preceded in death by her grandmother Joan Stannard and her paternal grandparents Austin and Louise Sims, her spirit will forever shine in those who loved her.

Dustie’s life was about joy, love, and faith. Our family is determined to give her the farewell she deserves, but we cannot do it alone.

If you can find it in your heart to contribute to this GoFundMe, our family will be deeply grateful. Your gift, no matter the size, will help us honor Dustie’s life with love and respect—and give us a place to gather, grieve, and remember the extraordinary woman she was.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us during this painful time.