Ira Thomas Simpson

Funeral services for Ira Thomas Simpson will be held 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Bernice Methodist Church. Brother Reagan Colvin will be officiating. Interment will follow in the Bernice City Cemetery under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes in Farmerville, LA. Before the service, there will be a visitation from 9:00 A.M. until 10:00 A.M.

Ira Thomas Simpson, 91, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty to family, friends, and his beloved LSU Tigers.

Born with a natural athleticism and competitive spirit, Ira's early years were marked by his passion for sports. He excelled in both basketball and baseball at the high school level, earning a baseball scholarship to Centenary College, where he played for four years and was honored as the team's Most Valuable Player. His love for the game extended beyond college as he played Big 8 baseball for three additional years. Later in life, he stayed close to the game by refereeing high school and college basketball - a role he enjoyed for many years.

Ira dedicated 35 years of his professional life to the oil and gas industry, bringing the same work ethic and determination to his career that he did to the ballfield.

Outside of work, Ira found joy in simple pleasures: a round of golf, a well-grilled steak, and a weekend filled with sports on television. But nothing brought him more happiness than time spent with his family. His devotion to his wife of nearly 71 years, Carol Anne Simpson, was unwavering. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and cherished traditions.

A man of quiet but steadfast faith, Ira was a long-time member of Bernice Methodist Church, where he formed lasting friendships and served his community with kindness and humility.

Ira was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Simpson, and his daughter, Juli Barmore.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol Anne Simpson; his son, Joe Simpson (wife Lisa); his son-in-law, Bo Barmore; his granddaughter, Audri McCready (husband Tim); and his treasured great-grandchildren: Morgan Farrar (husband Beau), Molli McCready, Madison McCready, and Mallory McCready. He also leaves behind his sister, Earline Evans (husband Mike), and numerous nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Ira.

Pallbearers will be Mickey Murphy, John Pratt, Beau Farrar, Johnny Buckley, Mike Evans, and Tim McCready. Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Hageman and Simon Pearson.

Ira's life was marked by quiet strength, steadfast love for his family, and an enduring passion for sports. He will be remembered for his quick wit, generous heart, and the countless ways he made life better for those who knew him.

Memorials may be made to the Bernice Methodist Church, 202 8th Street, Bernice, LA 71222.

The family takes comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his loved ones who have gone before him and that his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Geaux Tigers, Papaw

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Ira Thomas Simpson, please visit our Tribute Store.