Donval Carl Simpson

Donval Carl Simpson, of Boones Mill, Va., passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2009, at the age of 49. Carl grew up in Fairbanks, Alaska, and discovered his gift of the piano at age seven and later attended the University of Alaska where he furthered his love of music. His passion for music took him to Louisiana and New Jersey, where he played with Southwind and several other bands. Carl was extremely generous. He loved taking care of people in any way he could, cooking for them, talking to them, joking with them, or giving them a smile and encouragement. Animals were also often the recipients of his kindness. Carl never met a stranger. He taught piano to several students who went on to successful music careers. His music was his mission in life and he loved sharing it with others. He was preceded in death by his father, Donval R. Simpson. Carl was born December 7, 1959, in Boone, N.C., to Donval R. and Dorothy T. Simpson. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Simpson Chidester; stepfather, the Rev. Benjamin Chidester; fiancée, Catharine H. Martin; aunt and uncle, Ruth and James Reynolds, of Roanoke, Va.; two stepsisters, Susan Hill and husband, William, of Salem, Va., and Julia Caplick and husband, Jacob, of Boones Mill, Va.; stepbrothers, A.B. Chidester III, of Fairfax, Va., Philip Chidester and Thomas Chidester, both of Boones Mill, and James Chidester, of Bedford, Va. He is also survived by several cousins. A memorial service will be conducted 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2009, from Boones Mill United Methodist Church with the Rev. Robert Garner officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Boones Mill United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 288, Boones Mill, Va. 24065-0288. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall.