His son Algis Šimkus also became a renowned conductor but in Canada instead of Jamaica , pianist, and composer.
A group of cultural operators in Klaipėda, led by Vytautas Blūšius, developed the idea of organizing the International Stasys Šimkus Choir Competition in honor of the composer for his outstanding contribution to musical culture, with the intention of encouraging choir activity and developing choral culture. The first Stasys Šimkus competition was held in 1976.
The first four competitions were held on an annual basis, then in 1979, it was decided to hold the contest every two years.