Opal Simpson

Opal Simpson
Dateline: Alton, IL
Opal Nadine (McPherson) Simpson, 105, passed away on March 1, 2026. Opal was the first born of four children to Elmer Geoffrey and Pattie Huntas (Malone) McPherson on December 19, 1920 in Blytheville, Arkansas. On October 10, 1940 she married James Marshall Simpson in Springfield, Missouri. Their marriage was blessed with two daughters. She was employed in retail sales in the 1960's – 70's at Eastgate Plaza in East Alton and enjoyed working at Carousel Children's Shop and Nathan Marcus Ladies Apparel. She was a charter member of Heartland Baptist Church in Alton and attended faithfully until circumstances prohibited it. Her survivors include her daughter, Karen (Roger) Pace of Brighton, and their children, Amanda Ashley (Bryan) Smith and Corey Matthew (Brittney) Pace. Also surviving are grandchildren, Lori (Steve) Merkel and Staci (Brian) Hayes, great grandchildren, Bailey (Naomi) and Jordan Merkel, Olivia (Kaden Manning) and Jackson (Emily) Dufer, Hudson and Holden Hayes, Harrison Pace, Peyton and Colton Smith and great-great granddaughter, Harley Dufer, as well as Winsley Manning due later this month. Her brother, George (Doris) McPherson also survives, along with several loving and much-loved nieces and nephews an one aunt, Della Mauro. Her husband, James preceded her in death on June 13, 2007. She was also preceded in death by her daughter and son-in-law, Kathie and Stephen Taylor, her sister and brother -in-law, Anna Laura and Webb Frazier, her brother and sister-in-law, John and Sammie McPherson, and her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Norma Lee (Simpson) and Bill Schrempf.
Services will be private. Memorials may be made to Heartland Baptist Church. Let all who knew and loved her be at peace knowing that she is finally rejoicing with those who have gone before her.
Gent Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Additional information and online guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.