Austin Simms

Austin Patterson Simms, age 26, unexpectedly left this world on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Austin was born on September 3, 1999 and came home to Bismarck, Arkansas with his devoted parents Mona Renae Morman Simms and Danny Patterson Simms 2nd (Pat). In his older brother, Charles Parker Simms, Austin had a built-in best friend, teacher, and loving role model. He was surrounded in his young life by a bundle of boy cousins whose close ages provided endless playmates, video game competitors, mischief makers, wrestling targets, sword fighters, book traders, fort builders, swimming partners, and secret sharers. He grew up in a special family setting with his paternal grandparents and great-grandparents living just steps away. 

Throughout Austin’s life, his presence filled every space. His handsome stature, winsome personality, sharp wit, and his dazzling intellect made him an outstanding student in every setting from pre-school through graduate school.

Austin graduated as valedictorian from Bismarck High School in the Class of 2017, completed an undergraduate degree in mathematics and computer science from Southern Arkansas University in 2022, earned a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Arkansas Little Rock in 2025, and was currently pursuing a doctoral degree in applied mathematics.

Through tutoring others in mathematics, he discovered enjoyment in teaching and began his academic career at 25 years old, serving as Instructor of Mathematics at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia.

Austin’s life was shaped by and expressed through his beautiful mind and a relentless search for knowledge and understanding of this world. His complex mind continually sought answers to some of life’s most meaningful questions. Austin was an avid writer, filling pages with poetry, short stories, philosophical essays, and a complete screenplay. He used both word and symbol to analyze the conditions of life. An hour in conversation with Austin was like a glimpse into the depths of the universe.

Along with his exceptional mind, Austin had an exceptional heart. Austin’s capacity to love was fully demonstrated when he met the love of his life, fiancé Harley Elizabeth Gallaty. Together, they welcomed and completely fell in love with their son Nolan Taavi Simms, born April 22, 2025. Harley and Nolan gave Austin a sense of purpose and pride that illuminated his recent months.

Austin was preceded in death by grandfather Charles Albert “Pete” Helm of Bismarck, AR; grandmother Patricia Harris Sherrin of Texarkana, AR; and infant cousins Matthew Elam and Conner Berry.

Austin is survived by his parents, Pat and Mona Simms of Bismarck, AR; brother Parker (Callie) Simms of Scurry, TX; fiancé Harley Gallaty and infant son Nolan Simms; grandmother Victoria Helm of Dauphin Island, AL; grandfathers Tim Morman of Texarkana, AR and Danny Simms of Wilmot, AR; aunts and uncles Candy and Tim Elam of Texarkana, AR, and Katherine and Trey Berry of Arkadelphia, AR; lifelong friend Jasa Williams of Bismarck, AR; and the cousin crew — Tanner Berry of Burbank, CA; Berkeley Berry of Arkadelphia, AR; Gilson and Grayson Elam of Texarkana, AR; Karaline Elvir McCracken of Hot Springs, AR.

Austin’s life and legacy will be celebrated in a private family event to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the Nolan Simms Future Fund via CashApp ($NolanTSimms); by mail US Bank 4451 Central Avenue Hot Springs, AR 71913; or in person at any US Bank location.

Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home, Malvern.