Delane Simpson

Major F. Delane Simpson

(Retired)

September 24, 1937 - October 25, 2025 

Delane Simpson, 88, of  Bowling Green passed away October 25, 2025 at his residence due to a lengthy illness. He is preceded in death by his late wife, Brenda Ford Simpson of 60 years and his son, Craig Simpson.

Delane moved to Bowling Green at the age of 17 on a football scholarship to Western Kentucky University. He played the fullback/running back position as well becoming a graduate of the ROTC program. He graduated from WKU with Honors in 1959 with a B.A. in Geography. 

After college, Delane joined the United States Army, where he completed 20 years of service including two tours in Vietnam. He retired at the rank of Major as well as receiving numerous medals that include: Nation Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Soldiers Medal, The Oak Leaf Cluster, and two Bronze Stars. He served as Commander of the Bearcat Logistical Support Unit as well as organizing similar units around the globe. He was also recommended for the Legion of Merit Badge. 

Delane served as a City Commissioner as well as the Membership Director for the American Legion Post 23 and WKU's Assistant Athletic Director. He was also a Real Estate Agent for Bowling Green/Warren County and the surrounding areas. He was also selected as Bowling Green's "Hometown Hero" for his numerous contributions to the community of Bowling Green. 

His survivors include his current wife, Martha Darlene Simpson of Bowling Green. His two daughters, Nicole Byrne (Nathan) and Belinda Austin (Darrin) both of Bowling Green. Two brothers, Ted Simpson (Jan who is deceased) and Ronnie Simpson (Judy who is deceased) of Florida. One sister, Lori Brooks (Thor) of Franklin. Two nephews, Kelly Simpson (Mary) and Bernie Simpson (Tracy) all of Jacksonville, Florida. One sister in law, Nancy Stobaugh of Greenville, KY. One brother in law, Lee Ford of Greenville, KY. Six grandchildren, Joseph Todd (Elma), Alex Embry, Jerry Pfeiffer, Allen Mattingly, Gracie Dawn Mohr, and Legind Hart. Three great grandchildren, Liam Todd, Eliana Todd, and Elizabeth Watt. Delane is also survived by his extended family members, Nathaniel and Ashley Dew, as well as several other nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Delane has requested that donations be made to Hosparus of Southern Kentucky or American Legion Post 23. 

Visitation will be held at Cone Funeral Home on Sunday, November 2nd, from 4 - 8PM and again on Monday, November 3rd, from 9 - 11:30AM. A funeral service will take place at Cone Funeral Home on Monday, November 3rd, at 11:30AM. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery at 1:00 PM.