Family and friends gather to honor Jacob Sims on his birthday

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The memory of a Yuma man continues to be kept alive as family, friends, and community supporters gathered to celebrate Jacob Sims' 25th heavenly birthday.

Loved ones came together at Kennedy Skate Park for a balloon release in Sims' honor.

"The skate park, the hockey rink...those are Jacob's favorite places to go. He would come here as a kid riding his bike, riding at the skate park," said Genia Sims, Jacob Sims' grandmother.

Sims was murdered in November of 2024. Six people were arrested in connection with his death, but four of them are still facing charges.

Genia said the fight for justice continues.

"The fight for justice is never-ending. It's a fight, and it shouldn't be a fight, but it is a fight. You have to fight for everything. You have to fight for a voice," she said.

During the gathering, Genia announced that she had launched a foundation in Jacob's honor to help others fighting for justice. The foundation is called Justice 4 Jacob Sims.

"That's one way to keep Jacob's memory alive, but it's also helping other people. That's who Jacob was...he loved helping others. If you needed him, he was there," Genia said.

The fight for justice continues, but Sims' memory will live on forever.