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Joshua Simpson Obituary
Bearing the nickname of "Josh," he was known for his sense of humor and vivacious spirit. His fun loving character caused those who knew him to love him. Josh's natural comedic ability to make people laugh and smile brought joy to the hearts of many.
Joshua leaves to cherish in his memory, his loving mother Antheria D. Simpson-Mars (Mark) and father Randy Hardy, two brothers; Randy Gray, and Josiah Mars, one sister; Jadyn Mars, grandmother; Myra Simpson, Great Grandmother; Julie Hardy, Honorary Grandmothers; Maxine Bennett and Lena Cooley. Eight uncles; Benjamin (Carmen) Simpson Jr., Larry McCorkle, Sigmund Williams, Jamon Simpson both of Charlotte, North Carolina, Billy, Matthew Hardy, J.C. Hardy of Loris, SC, and Charles Hardy, nine Aunts; Jean (Arthur) Pope, Brenda Davis of Houston, Texas, Trudy (Nate) Strowbridge of El Paso, Texas, Valerie Harris, Irma Simpson, Lena (Henry) Finch, Corrine Chancey, Stephanie Johnson of Lake Wells, FL and Annie Strayhorne. Four special cousins; Benjamin Simpson III, Darius Simpson, Michael Simpson and Aaron Simpson and his Godparents; Rachael (Randall) Miller of Atlanta, GA, Zelmon (Genice) McBride of Los Angeles, California, Yvonne (Willis) Smith, John Buckman along with a host of other aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.
The celebration of life services will be held at Christian Faith Fellowship Church 1727 27th St. Zion, IL on Thursday, June 14, 2007. The wake begins at 11:00AM and the home-going celebration following at Noon. Apostle E. James and Deborah Logan, Pastors. Entombment will be at Warren Cemetery, Gurnee, IL. Arrangements by BRADSHAW & RANGE FUNERAL HOME, 2513 Dugdale Road, Waukegan, IL. (847) 662-3553. Please sign guestbook at www.bradshaw-range.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joshua Simpson
MICHELLE JOHNS
June 20, 2007
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENSES TO YOUR FAMILY. OUR PRAYERS ARE ALWAYS WITH THE SIMPSON FAMILY. KNOW THAT WE LOVE YOU ALL AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR YOU ALL. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS AND KEEP YOU. MUCH LOVE AUNT MICHELLE AND FAMILY
Michele Leavy
June 18, 2007
My prayers go out to the family, friends and everyone who was blessed enough to have Joshua be a part of their lives.
I did not know Joshua,but from the stories I have read,he was someone that would touched so many lives in a positive way.
I know his family must be very proud of him and hopefully find peace in knowing that they created and raised such a wonderful human being!
God Bless
Eric Peterson
June 17, 2007
My condolences to Antheria and Randy on the loss of your son. Although I never met Josh, I had the pleasure of knowing you and Randy. I pray you and your families find comfort in knowing he is in a better place. Josh's heroic deeds will never be forgotten.
June 16, 2007
I did not personally know Josh nor has family. However, for all of us in the Zion, Waukegan and North Chicago area, we are family and we share in the strides, successes and losses of all of our children. His actions and the love that he showed is an obvious sign that he was a well raised young man, a fun loving person, and a true friend. There are not many young men that would truly give his life for his friends. Any stranger, friend and family member will surely treasure the presence of such a person as Josh that left a legacy in life and his home-going.
Elizabeth Miranda
June 16, 2007
Josh was such an amazing friend, he always knew how to make me smile when i was having a bad day. Working by his side no moment was a dull one, i am truly going to miss him, but he will always and forever be in my thoughts and in my heart. Rest in peace Josh.
Jacquelyn Christmas
June 15, 2007
Antheria, God does not put more on us than we can bare and no matter how painful it may be and how hard we miss our loved ones we have to turn to God for that comfort. He is going to give you that and get you through it. Just know that you were a good mom to your son, he loved you, and he knew the Lord. My family and I will be praying for you always.
Brenda Porter
June 15, 2007
Antheria, He has his wings and will always be with you in spirit.
ASHLEY WALLS
June 15, 2007
TO MY FAMILY. WE ALL WILL BE JUST FINE.JOSHUA WANTED US ALL TOO BE HAPPY.WE WILL SEE HIM IN HEAVEIN PRASING GOD AND DANCING TOO.LOVE ALWAYS YOUR LITTLE COUSIN FOR LIFE AND ALWAYS ASHLEY AKA ASH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!RIP BIG COUSIN JOSHUA LAMAR SIMPSON
Ms Angie Warship
June 14, 2007
Josh was a very nice well mannered young man. I will always miss the way he would mess with me and make me laugh. God Bless you and keep you. Love you Josh
Linda Brooks
June 14, 2007
To Josh's Family, Although I didn't know Josh, my heart goes out to everyone of you. He is at home with His Heavenly Father, and his last act of love for his Heavenly Father was to " give his life for his brother". Our Lord has a very, very special place for Josh, he sits at the right hand of our Father. My deepest sympathies, Linda Brooks
June 14, 2007
I remember when my family first relocated to Zion from VA, I began visiting churches and found CFFC - Zion. It was there that I witnessed "Step of Fatih". I had never seen youth minister in dance the way Joshua's group did. I join that church that day. I can still see him ministering on the stage and know specifically some of the lives he touched, mine included that day. The bible says we are to train a child up in the way they should go, so that when they are old they will not depart from what they learned. If Joshua's name means "Jesus saves" then I can tell his mother trained him up right and look forward to meeting him in heaven to share with him the impact his group had on my life since I never took the time to tell him while he lived.
Jazimeine Staton
June 14, 2007
wow it seems like just yesterday when we graduated instead of a year ago. that will always be my favorite memory of you. you helped keep everyones mind off of it being cold wet and rainy on graduation day. you kept everyone around you entertained. imma miss you josh. you were cool peeps. r.i.p man!
Niki Pickens
June 14, 2007
Josh was a great friend. All i have are great memories of him. Josh and i used to work together and with him there work was always fun. He would tease the bosses and call me big head. I will never forget these times. I feel very lucky to have known Josh and i will miss and remember him forever.
Cheryl Coleman
June 14, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
pat arrington
June 14, 2007
Dang! where do i start i knew josh since my lil dude days i went thru a lot wit him -n-when i found out i jus broke into tear's but i had 2get myself 2gether cause he passed for his heroic actoin's -n-i miss him so much but i kno he lookin down on us sayin hey im here im wit god im not hurtin nomore so i cry cause the good things he did in life and 4rm my heart i say R.i.p big bruh i love u i miss u see u when i get there!!
The Caston's Family
June 14, 2007
To the family and friends we are very sorry for your loss. We pray that God will put strength in all of us who knew of Josh and bless us.
Tara King
June 14, 2007
May the Holy Spirit give you comfort in your time of grief.
Martha Padilla-Ramos
June 14, 2007
Dear Myra, Antheria, and Jean,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences . It is sad in that Joshua was doing a good deed when he passed away. I know that your faith will help you through this difficult time in your lives.
Sincerely,
Martha Padilla-Ramos
Myrtis Perry
June 13, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Arthur & Gwen Williams
June 13, 2007
God never closes a door unless he opens a window.God Bless
Vickie Cook & Family
June 13, 2007
I would like to extend my heartfelt condolence on your loss. Remember that Josh will live on forever in the hearts of those who love him. My prayers are with you and your family.
SONDRA AND BARABARA THOMAS
June 13, 2007
TO ANTHERIA, MYRA AND ALL OF THE FAMILY: IN TIMES LIKE THESE, GRIP THE SOLID ROCK - JESUS!!! OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL. HOW THE MEMORIES FLOOD OUR MINDS OF JOSH AS A LITTLE BOY IN 1ST CORINTHIAN. YES HE BROUGHT A SMILE TO US ALL.
andrea ayers
June 13, 2007
RIP you show that you was strong and willing to give your life for someone else.i will miss your goofy but and your eggs!!!!lov ya
Michael Coleman and family
June 13, 2007
Antheria,
I am deeply sorry to hear of your loss. Always remember that the times and memories you and your family shared with Josh can never be taken away. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. He may be gone but he'll never be forgotten.
Luther & Nellie Scott
June 13, 2007
Patrice,
We would like to express our sincere condolence and prayers to you and your entire family.
Ps 30:5 Weeping may endure for a night but Joy cometh in the morning.
Dr Eleanor Phifer/Pastor
June 13, 2007
Antheria,
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1. Our prayers are with you all.
Mattie Walker
June 13, 2007
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted. A time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
To the Simpson Family, I'm daily praying your strengh and peace in the Lord. Joshua was born for such a time as this. Joshua was raised to love the Lord and to be a waitness to others of God's love and compassion. Joshua planted his last seed. And that was the seed of love, kindness, thoughtfulness, friendship, help and salvation. And that seed is even now growing roots. And will florish into a big tree for the Lord God. Your loss is heaven's gain. The only comfort I can give to you and your family is this: The Love of God and His son Jesus Christ. I pray the peace of Jesus will guard both your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
We love you all very much. I pray God's peace upon you. God's continued blessings be upon you.
Love Mattie Walker and family
Ciara Mason
June 13, 2007
Josh has this heart of gold that can never be replaced in our own hearts. Just the way you carried yourself let us know that you would be more valuable than ever. And well now we all see my Angel...
watch over us because we are lookin up at you.
NAOMI CAIN
June 13, 2007
HEY JOSH I REMEMBER I WAS OUT WHEN WE GOT THE CALL AND IT WAS SUCH A SHOCK AND NO ONE WANTED TO BELIEVE IT BUT IT WAS TRUE GOD HAD DECIDED TO TAKE YOU AWAY. MAN I REMEMBER ALL THE GOOD TIMES WE HAD IN HIGH SCHOOL I GOT ALL THOSE CRAZY PICTURES OF YOU AND TIYOSHIA. I AM GOING TO MISS YOU ALOT BUT I PRAY THAT GOD GIVES US ALL STRENGTH TO GET THROUGH THIS,
I LOVE YOU BRUH
NAOMI
Kearha Whitley
June 13, 2007
Josh..I can just remember all the good things about you! From having so much fun with you at my Sweet 16 party to on the phone with you while at work you kept a smile on my face, If I would of known this was going to be the last time for use I wish I would of acted sick and hung out with you and Semode instead of Working. Your in a better Place with God.
Love you,Kearha
Peggy Austin
June 13, 2007
To God be the glory for all things...It is never easy when we have lost a love one, but remember God makes no mistake, you may not see it now but there is a purpose in all of this....."for a man to lay down his life" was the first thing that came to my mind when I heard what happen.
I will continue to pray for strength, comfort and wisdom.
May God continue to bless you all in your time.
Connie Wilber
June 13, 2007
Myra:
I have never met you or any or your family. However, here at Walgreen's, we are ALL family. It is just the way it is. I can feel your pain more real then Anyone can. I lost my 20 year old daughter in 1987 quite suddenly. No greater pain can you feel, until your child is buired before you are. You and your family are in our hearts and our prayers. Remember the happy times, the proud moments and cherish them deeply. Our loved one is gone, but never forgotten.
KENNY COBB
June 13, 2007
TO THE FAMILY IT TOO IS LIKE I'VE LOST A NEPHEW IN LOSING JOSH. GROWING UP WITH YOU ALL YOU MADE ME FEEL LIKE A PART OF YOUR FAMILY AND THAT STILL IS TRUE TO THIS DAY. ANTHERIA YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU SO KEEP YOUR HAND IN GOD'S HAND AND HE WILL LEAD YOU THE RIGHT WAY. IF YOU NEED ANYTHING DON'T HESITATE TO CALL ON ME I'LL BE RIGHT THERE LIKE BACK IN THE DAY. REMEMBER JOSH IS IN A FAR BETTER PLACE THAN ANY OF US RIGHT NOW. I LOVE YOU AND THE FAMILY.
(To the Family of Josh) From: The Jones Family
June 13, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Angela Nelson
June 13, 2007
I too, lost a loved one in 4/07, my first and only grandchild was a "stillborn". My prayers are with you and your family. God is good, and I know he has plans for us all.
De'Ana Fletcher
June 13, 2007
I knew Josh since Kids club in the fourth grade. Never was there a time where he didn't make me laugh. He will be greatly missed by alot of people. My prayers go out to you and your family.
LaVerne Young
June 13, 2007
Myra and family I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Linnea Williams
June 13, 2007
Josh You were a blessing to your grandmother and will truly be missed. You have gone on to be with the Lord. Myra he will always be with you in spirit. God Bless.
Pastor Thomas & Earnestine McCurry
June 13, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Angie Roberson
June 13, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Angie Roberson
June 13, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
The Coleman Family
June 13, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Tony Smith
June 13, 2007
Josh,
You will never be forgotten,I will always remember you as one of the Temptations.
God has something for you and I know you will dance again for him in that heavenly choir.
renay smith-williams
June 13, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Alethea Gray-Bates, Anton Bates, Randy Gray, Cydarius, Devin, Breanna, and Amber Bates-Gray
June 12, 2007
Antheria,
There are never the right words to express the sadness we feel for such a loss. Everything that happens is part of God’s eternal plan. But blessings come in many ways that sometimes we can’t see. Your loss is irreplaceable, may the glow of Gods love light your way and may the warmth of his embrace give you peace and comfort. As you are going through this tough time keep in mind that there will come a day when your tears of sorrow will softly flow into tears of remembrance and your heart will begin to heal itself and grieving will be interrupted by episodes of joy and you will hear the whisper of hope. A memory is a keepsake of time that lives forever in the heart. May those memories bring solace during this time of loss.
Thank you for allowing Josh and Randy to know, grow, and love each other as brothers should. Josh was very special to me and I loved him as my own and I will truly miss him. I will never forget the laughter and joy Josh always brought with him. He had a heart of gold and was a beautiful child. Antheria you raised a courageous young man who loved life and everything about it. I truly believe that we will see Josh again one day on the other side. My family is here for you and if there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to ask.
June 12, 2007
So sorry for your loss. What a wonderful person.
Stephanie Swilley
June 12, 2007
I didn't personal know Josh but I could tell you that Josh was a true Angel who did his job here on earth and will be the guarding angel for many others. We were blessed the have him here with us to live out his life job here on earth. Your family will always be in my prays.
Ronique Usher-Cofield
June 12, 2007
I did not know Josh personally, but the story of his heroism touched my heart.May God bless your family at this time and always. I know you have wonderful memories to keep you all together and strong. I send my prayers and condolences to the family.
Joyce Robinson-Coleman
June 12, 2007
Antheria, you raised a very courageous young man. Heaven has a fine new angel.Know that myself and family have you all in our prayers.
Mary Booker
June 12, 2007
Honey's this was a complete blow to us when we heard what had happened. Know that we love you all very much and are praying for you. Remember John 14:1-3.
Sonya Hampton
June 12, 2007
Antheria,and family you have our deepest sympathy.We are thinking of you in your sorrow and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Hampton Family
Pamela Fleming
June 12, 2007
Antheria, I was so hurt to here about the passing on your son Josh. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I wish I had a chance to meet him. God has a special place for Josh. Love Ya.
Kierra & Kendace Martin
June 12, 2007
May GOD Strengthen the family in this desperate time of need.
We'll miss you JOSH!
Lynnette Terrien
June 12, 2007
I do not know your family, but I know a good son. You should be forever proud of the wonderful, and selfless young man you raised. Someone lives because of his bravery. He is with you today and always, walking, watching and loving with you. May God ease the burden of your grief.
Cheryl and Sonya Frazier
June 12, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Necia Wiggins
June 12, 2007
I did not know Josh personally, I am a friend of the Hardy family and a member of the CFFC-Zion church family,but please know that his heroism and selfless acts truly touched my heart.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I pray that your memories of Josh keep you strong.
Necia NLM Wiggins
Stacey Garland
June 12, 2007
Antheria and family, on behalf of Stacey Garland and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Penny Colley
June 12, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family. You all are in my thoughts & prayers. May all of your good memories bring you peace :). Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
David & Andrea Hudson
June 12, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Penny Colley
June 12, 2007
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. All of you are truly in my thoughts and prayers. May the memories keep you at peace :). Take Care!
Donna Dallas
June 12, 2007
Antheria, my heart goes out to you and your family. You did an outstanding job raising your son, which is especially a challenge in this day and time. Rejoice in knowing that he truly knew and loved the Lord! What precious memories you will have of such a fine young man! I will keep you in my prayers. May God bless you.
The Curry's
June 12, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Denise Kindle La Pointe
June 12, 2007
My sincere sympathies on your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Sincerely,
Denise and Mark (Kindle) La Pointe
Du'ane,Kim,LaTrese & LaShaun Shipp
June 12, 2007
Antheria/Myra/Ben and the entire Simpson family-God Bless You All!
You are in our prayers.
I remember "Josh" when he was a little boy when we all live on Greenfield and he played with Trese...wow the memories.
Laura McCall
June 12, 2007
Antheria,
Josh was truly special!
No bond is as great as that between a parent and a child. May all of your memories bring you peace and comfort. May God's love give you strength to carry on.
Love you,
JOHNSON FAMILY SIMS FAMILY
June 12, 2007
MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY IN THIS TIME OF NEED. JOSH WILL BE MISSED.
Qadriyyah Woods
June 12, 2007
Myra and family, I know your heart is broken now, but we know God does not make mistakes. Let not your heart be troubled......Weeping shall endure for the night, but joy will come in the morning. He will not leave your comfortless. You will always be in my prayers. Love you.
Eartha Smith
June 12, 2007
I did not know Josh personally, but I am a member also of CFFC, and was truly blessed to have seen him praise dance. My heart and prayers goes out to his family, May God keep and comfort you in your time of need.
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