George Carlton Simpson Sr., 89, received a call that he could not ignore on March 8, 2016. He was called home to be with brothers and sisters, to reunite with other family members and to break bread with God.
Born Dec. 21, 1926 in Elizabeth City, N.C., he was the son of the late George and Emma Simpson.
He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He received his degree in Interior Design at Richmond Professional Institute. He returned to service in the U.S. Air Force from which he retired in 1971 and moved his family to Gloucester, which he loved. It was there that he set down roots, raised his children, created a garden – first to feed his family and then to enjoy the beauty of flowers, started an upholstery business, and became a member of Bellamy United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir for a number of years.
He was a man of many facets and will be remembered for many different things: a loving husband and father, a World War II and Vietnam veteran and also served during the Korean War, Scout Leader for Troop 111 in Gloucester, an upholsterer, a master gardener, a volunteer at the Walter Reed Convalescent Center, Santa to many, and an avid cross stitcher.
He grew up during the Depression and made do with what he had. He was a man of few words but he really expressed himself through his cross stitch. You could not talk to him without him breaking out his brag book of cross stitch projects that he had completed. He was especially proud of the ribbon he won on a cross stitch entry at the Gloucester Daffodil Festival and of a project depicting a stained glass window from Oakland Christian Church in Chuckatuck, Va. where he went as a child. He also loved taking pictures and showing them.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Jeter Simpson; his children, Stephen, George, Theresa, and Patrick; his grandchildren. Matthew, Jessica, and Scott, and numerous nieces and nephews.
We will remember his smile, his warmth, and his love for family, friends, and his church. He made a difference in the lives of many. We invite you to join us and celebrate his life together.
Visitation will be 2 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, March12, at Bellamy United Methodist Church, 4870 Chestnut Fork Rd. Gloucester. A memorial service will begin at 3 o’clock. Following the service, a reception will be held for the family at Bellamy United Methodist Church.
The family asks that you make a donation to Wounded Warrior Project or Bellamy United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are being handled by Andrews Funeral Home & Crematory, Gloucester.