Arthur David Simoneau

Arthur "Art" David Simoneau was born on October 6, 1957, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Mary Beaudry Simoneau and Rene Simoneau, and passed away peacefully-but leaving us far too soon-on July 14, 2025, at Lower Cape Fear Hospice and Life Care Center.

Art grew up in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and graduated from Douglas Byrd High School with the Class of 1975 before attending Appalachian State University. A true Carolina man-though never to be mistaken for a Carolina Tarheels fan-he called many places home throughout the state, including Fayetteville, Boone, Valle Crucis, Lenoir, Hickory, Charlotte, Tabor City, and Hampstead.

Art was a man, a gentleman of many talents, hobbies and a loyal heart. In college, he launched his own cleaning company, worked in the food industry and later built a career in fitness, health and telecommunications.

Faith was the cornerstone of his life. Art's days were grounded in prayer; the rosary was often in his hands, a source of strength and peace throughout his life. His devotion to God and commitment to service shaped everything he did. Art was an active member of the Knights of Columbus through the Catholic Church of the Resurrection in Loris, South Carolina and supported countless charitable causes, including food banks, fundraising for children with special needs, and the Birthright organization. During his years in Hampstead, he was a faithful member of All Saints Catholic Church and a devoted participant in prayer groups and church activities.

Art's love for life shone through his passions. He was a true sports enthusiast-whether playing, coaching young athletes, cheering from the stands, or passionately from his favorite spot in front of the TV. He enjoyed golf with friends, a good game of bocce, horseshoes, cornhole, basketball, or football, and he never missed a chance to root for his beloved Carolina Hurricanes, Duke Blue Devils, Mountaineers or Boston Red Sox. He loved them all. Not so much the Panthers in his later years but they deserve a nod.

Music was one of Art's greatest joys in this life. Famous for his legendary air guitar and an unmatched passion for live shows, he never missed the chance to hear a good concert-from classic rock to country roots steeped in southern soul. His playlists spanned generations, from Jethro Tull and Lynyrd Skynyrd to Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, Incubus and countless others.

Beyond music, Art had a gift in the kitchen and a love for discovering flavors from around the world, often adding his own personal twist to every dish. He carried a deep pride in his French and Irish roots-a heritage that shaped his character and his deep love for family traditions. Art was the kind of man who made gift-giving a joy; his gratitude for even the smallest gesture was genuine, and he had a way of making you believe that simple things mattered most. If you hand picked out a tee shirt for him, he would wear it and wear it proudly.

His other pleasures were just as pure: quiet walks on the beach searching for shark teeth, and collecting old field pottery and arrowheads-treasures that spoke to his curiosity and appreciation for life's beauty. And if you knew Art, you knew he was rarely without an ice-cold, caffeine-free Pepsi in hand.

Above all, Art cherished his family and his incredible circle of friends. He loved deeply and gave endlessly, often reminding those around him to "slow down" and savor life. In his later years, he embraced the art of living well-finding peace in the quiet moments and joy in a slower pace. Of course, that didn't stop him from tackling big projects, caring for his home and expansive yard, or juggling the demands of his favorite newborn-turned-toddler. Affectionately known as "Pepe" in those precious years, his greatest joy was his granddaughter, Claire Laken, who brought him immeasurable happiness and pride.

Art is survived by his wife of 36 years, Rebecca "Jean" Stanley; his son, Zackary Simoneau; daughter-in-law, Jaclyn Simoneau; and his cherished granddaughter, Claire Laken. He is also survived by his devoted sisters, Ann Simoneau and Connie Simoneau (Tommy Hampton); his beloved sister-in-law, Judy Howard; several nieces and nephews; his best friend, Thomas "Woody" Woodall of Luray, VA; and the countless lifelong friends of the Byrd Brotherhood who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Jane Cherry; his brother, Richard "Dickie" Simoneau; his brother-in-law, Lake Howard and his daughter, Ellen.

Deeply rooted in faith, family, and friendship, Art's life was a tapestry of simple joys and enduring love-a story that will be told for generations.

As Chris Stapleton sang, 'I'm just a traveler on this earth.' Art's road here may have ended, but his love and laughter will light the path for those he leaves behind. We will miss you deeply-until we meet again, save us a seat.

Plans for a Memorial Mass and Celebration of Life will take place on August 16th in Hampstead, North Carolina, with details shared privately with close family and friends.