Deborah Lynn Simpson

Deborah Lynn Simpson was born a bright light on August 16, 1960, and left us behind unexpectedly on March 19, 2025. She lives on forever, dancing in our hearts and memories, where she reminds us to live our fullest truest lives.

Debby was born into a military family and, as was the custom, crisscrossed the country at regular intervals growing up in California, Virginia, and Hawaii. She had a special perspective on Life, having learned of loss at an early age, which surely informed her carpe diem resolve. She was a tough and energetic person who lived fully and on her own terms. Debb loved travel and adventure, the arts, good food, shopping, and spending time with friends and family. Loved deeply by many people across the world. She nurtured her friendships far and wide - including her friend's partners, their kids, and parents. She kept up with everyone and in so doing helped others stay connected with each other. Debby had a 25 year relationship with metastasized breast cancer and survived a cardiac arrest. She was a tireless advocate for her health, and supported others in theirs, giving us all motivation to pursue our best lives.

At nineteen, and soon after losing her mother to cancer, Debby, passionate about dance, left Virginia to further her professional studies at the Gus Giordano Dance Center in Evanston, IL. Debby danced professionally in the Chicagoland area for several years before pursuing a career as an American Airlines Flight Attendant (Class of 83-04). Never has there been one better suited to the lifestyle of a flight attendant. She wore her wings proudly. Debby accepted various special assignments including flight attendant recruitment. She represented American Airlines in its partnerships with Susan B Komen® and Step Up to Cancer. Upon retirement in 2018, Debby continued to nurture her friendships and enrich her life through world travel.

In death she follows her beloved mother Donna Gumz Simpson, grandmother Ruby Wellons Simpson, grandfather RAdm. Maurice E Simpson, father Capt. George T K Simpson, dance teacher Mrs. Cuppets, and younger sister Jennifer Simpson. She leaves behind her uncle Bill (Mary K) Simpson, cousin Katie (Kalu Coletta) Simpson, adoring second cousins on both sides of her family, her "second mom" Midgi Brooks, and her many good friends across the world.

The Celebration of Debby's Life will be announced at a future date.



Should you wish to make a Memorial Donation, please consider one of the below-listed organizations, each near to Debby's heart.

Wings Foundation

https://wingsfoundation.com/

Bruce Woods Dance Foundation

https://www.brucewooddance.org/

Susan G Komen®

https://www.komen.org