Obituary published on Legacy.com by Rainge Memorial Chapel Inc on Dec. 3, 2025.
Michael Anthony Sumpson, age 64, of Douglas, Georgia, peacefully departed this life on November 22, 2025, at Pinewood Manor Nursing Home after an extended illness.
Born in
Blackshear, Georgia, Michael was the seventh of nine children born to the late Mr. Troy Lee Simpson and Mrs. Hellen Simpson. From a young age he was affectionately given the nicknames "Slick Mick" and "Oinky Oink," names that followed him throughout his life and reflected his charismatic personality and ability to bring joy wherever he went.
Michael attended the Pierce County Public School System, where he formed lifelong friendships and nurtured the work ethic that carried him through his adult years. As a young man, he met and married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Reid, and together they built a loving home filled with laughter, family, and faith. Their bond remained a source of strength and devotion until her passing.
A hardworking and skilled man, Michael was employed as a licensed plumber before working for Ace Pole for several years before joining Douglas Asphalt, where he dedicated nearly 30 years of service. Known for his dependability and strong work ethic, he earned the respect of his coworkers and community alike.
Outside of work, Michael embraced life with a quiet passion. He was an avid fisherman, a talented pool player, and a loyal sports fan. Above all, heenjoyed the simple pleasure of spending time with his family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
Michael was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn Reid Simpson; his parents, Troy and Ellen Simpson; four brothers-RassyJohnson, Donald Johnson, Eddie Simpson, and Kenneth Simpson; and one sister, Diane Harris.
He leaves to cherish his everlasting memory: one son, Hakeem Fedrick of
Blackshear, GA; one daughter, Alexis Padgett of Waycross, GA; and two precious grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by three brothers: Terry (Tricie) Simpson of Waycross, GA; Roy Gene (Annie) Deering of Palatka, FL; and Eric Freemanof Oklahoma. His surviving sisters include Linda (Alton) Tuttle and Wanda Felton, both ofBlackshear, GA.
He also leaves behind a host of loving aunts-Willie Mae Jones of Waycross, GA; Betty Williams and Mary Johnsonof Jacksonville, FL; and Dorothy Taylor of Broxton, GA; uncles-Andrew (Edna) Johnson of Jacksonville, FL, and Joseph Johnson of Broxton, GA; a devoted friend, Jan Ward; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and special friends.
Michael's presence, humor, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.