Jeffrey Duane Simpkins

It is with the greatest sadness and deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Jeffrey Duane Simpkins, 51, of Greenville, North Carolina. Jeff passed away on October 24, 2025, after a brief illness, surrounded by his loved ones.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the home of Steve and Carla Farmer, 3281 Hudson's Crossroads Road, Greenville, NC 27858. All who loved Jeff are welcome to join and share memories.
Jeff was born and raised in North Carolina and lived in several states before finding his lifelong home in the Black Jack area. He was known for his easygoing nature, infectious smile, and the remarkable ability to make everyone he met feel like family. If you knew Jeff, you likely felt like you were his best friend - and that was his gift.
He is survived by his loving wife, Melissa Simpkins, and their son, Jarrett, who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also survived by his parents, George and Melba Simpkins; and siblings Franco Simpkins (Carrie), Nick Simpkins, Suzanne Baker (Steve), Wade Simpkins (Amy), Brandon Simpkins (Anna), Stephanie Simpkins (fiancé Larry), and Jennifer "JJ" Welsh (Richard). Jeff also leaves behind his best buddy and riding partner, Ford, and his new puppy, Ranger. He is additionally survived by many wonderful nieces and nephews whom he loved and cared for as if they were his own children.
Jeff's circle of friendship was wide and deep. He is remembered fondly by his lifelong friends Steve Farmer, Troy Heath (cousin), Tim Mobley, and John B (cousin) - men he considered his brothers - as well as countless others who held a special place in his heart. Jeff had a rare ability to make every person feel seen, valued, and loved. That legacy of love, strength, and compassion is what he leaves with us all.
Although fifty-one years is far too young to leave this world, Jeff lived and loved more in his brief time on Earth than most people do in two lifetimes. He had an unmatched zeal for life - whether coaching youth from tee-ball to high school football, mentoring friends and family, or simply spending time with those he loved. His greatest joy, however, came from being a devoted husband and father.
Jeff and Melissa's story began in childhood. They attended kindergarten and fifth grade together at Chicod, played little league baseball, and shared countless pickup basketball and coed softball games. Their life together was full of laughter and deep, enduring love.
Jeff was a true sports enthusiast. He loved fishing, golfing, and cheering on his favorite teams - Carolina basketball, ECU football and baseball, and the Washington Commanders - and he took particular joy in rooting for any team playing against the Dallas Cowboys or the Duke Blue Devils. His favorite moments, though, were spent golfing, fishing, or enjoying any activity with his son, Jarrett, who was his very best friend in the world. He also loved weekends and holidays at the beach with Melissa and Jarrett by his side. Jeff's proudest moments were the day he married Melissa and the day his pride and joy, Jarrett, was born.
In times like this, we take comfort in the words, "This too shall pass," and in Matthew 5:4: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
On behalf of our entire family, we would like to express our love and gratitude to all our family and friends who have supported us emotionally, financially, and in so many practical ways - feeding us, helping with chores, and simply being there when we needed you most. We would also like to extend a special thanks to all of Melissa's sisters and family (the Edwards), her mother and family, all of Melba's sisters and family, and the many friends who have become family. We love you all. Jeff always knew that the ladies were the rock of the family - and that has never been more true than now.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the GoFundMe page at this link: https://gofund.me/9cdf8b472
We love you all and thank you very much.