Rev. John Wesley Simpson

Rev. John Wesley Simpson, age 81, Itinerant Elder of the AME Church in Hannibal, Missouri, passed away at 11:02 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Grand View Funeral Home. Rev. Genevia Allen-Patterson will officiate. Burial will follow at Grand View Burial Park.

Visitation celebrating John's life will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday at Grand View Funeral Home.

John was born on August 13, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Frankie and Elizabeth (Pleasant) Simpson (Naomi Johnson).

He was united in marriage to Mamie L. Bradshaw on October 22, 1962, in St. Charles, Missouri. They celebrated 63 years of marriage together.

Survivors include his loving wife, Mamie Simpson; his daughters, Rev. Sherry Simpson of St. Louis, Missouri, Norma Anderson of Hannibal, Missouri, and Theresa Carey (Artis) of Slidell, Louisiana; his adopted daughter, Melissa Hickman; his brother, James Simpson; his sisters, Lexanne Lyons, June Tyler (James), Naomi Lanney (Jesse), and Sarah Johnson; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and spiritual children.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Morris, William and Nathaniel, Jr; his sister, Earnestine; his father-in-law, Russell Bradshaw Sr.; his mother-in-law, Rodelia Bradshaw; and other in-laws.

John received his call to ministry at Grant Chapel AME Church in Wentzville, Missouri, where he was a proud and dedicated member.

Rev. John Wesley Simpson was a devoted servant of God, compassionate community leader, and beloved family man. His life was marked by faith, generosity, and a genuine love for people.

He dedicated his life to ministry and service. Throughout his years of pastoral leadership, John faithfully served his congregation with wisdom, humility, and grace. He was a proud member of the Ministerial Alliance, working alongside fellow clergy to strengthen and uplift the spiritual life of the community. In addition, he served as a chaplain at Hannibal Regional Hospital, where he brought comfort, prayer, and steady reassurance to patients and families during some of life's most difficult moments.

John was truly a people person; he never met a stranger. His warm smile, firm handshake, joyous laughter, and heartfelt conversations made everyone feel welcome and valued. Whether in the pulpit, at a hospital bedside, or standing in line at the grocery store, he shared kindness freely and listened intently.

Beyond his ministry, John had a deep love for sports and community heritage. He was an active player in Negro League baseball, honoring its rich history and the legacy of perseverance it represents. Sports were more than a pastime for him, they were a way to connect with others, celebrate teamwork, and share joy.

At home, family was always his top priority. He treasured dancing with his beloved wife, a simple joy that reflected their enduring love and partnership. He delighted in backyard barbecues filled with laughter, fishing trips that offered peaceful reflection, and every opportunity to gather loved ones around him. His generosity extended far beyond his family; he gave faithfully to local organizations and causes, always seeking ways to support and strengthen his community.

Pallbearers will be Jonathan Simpson, Elijah Simpson, Gabriel Simpson, McKinley Stephens, Brandon Stephens, Michael Sydnor, and Matthew Sydnor. Honorary pallbearers are James Simpson, Keith Simpson, and Artis Carey Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the National Kidney Foundation, or the American Cancer Society, in care of Grand View Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be shared with the family, and a video tribute may be viewed on John's memorial page at www.grandviewfuneral.com