James C. "Shorty" Simpson Jr.

James C. Simpson Jr. "Shorty", 62, of Chariton, peacefully passed away at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, surrounded by his loving family. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Florida.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.

James was born on November 19, 1963, in California, to James Simpson Sr. and Sharon (Ebell) Simpson McGowan. Though his nickname suggested otherwise, Shorty had a heart far bigger than his name-and he would probably argue that just to keep things interesting.

On November 20, 2004, Shorty married Joan Barton. Shorty chose the day after his birthday, so he had absolutely no excuse to forget their anniversary, but still would forget it anyways.

Shorty was famous for his running commentary on just about everything. He could grumble about the weather, tools, the timing, or how things "used to be done," but when someone needed help, there was never hesitation and never a complaint. If you called him, he showed up, no questions asked and that was simply who he was and how he'll be remembered.

A few hobbies that he loved were fishing and working on cars, finding peace either with a line in the water or under the hood of a vehicle. He preferred to fix things himself and do them his way, offering plenty of colorful commentary along the way. If something needed done, he always got it done.

Shorty was filled with a fiery spirit and a stubborn streak, both rooted in loyalty and passion. He loved deeply and protected fiercely, especially when it came to this family. No matter what kind of day he was having, he always tried to make sure those around him were comfortable and laughing-even if he wasn't.

There isn't a story that Shorty could tell that wasn't twisted and turned so unexpectedly you never knew where it was going until it landed just right and left you smiling. He didn't need to demand attention to be noticed and never had to take over a room-he simply just walked into it. Life with him was never dull, and his presence will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Joan (Barton) Simpson; his children, Joshua Benedict and Joy Benedict; stepmother, Nina Simpson; siblings: Theresa (James) Downing, Fred (Lorri) Simpson, Cathy (Mike) Finning, Karen (Mike) Zborovsky, Kevin (Lisa) Manning, Clinton (Hope) Simpson, Samantha (Jorge) Collado, and Christy Simpson; along with many nieces and nephews.

Shorty was preceded in death by his parents, James Simpson Sr. and Sharon (Ebell) Simpson McGowan; siblings: Jason Simpson, Spring Martin, Dawn Mayer, and Summer McGowan.