Ryan Matthew Simpson

Ryan Matthew Simpson, age 16, of Versailles, passed away Friday, June 6, 2025. He was born November 4, 2008, in Warrensburg, Missouri, son of Matt and Kayla (White) Simpson.
He recently completed his sophomore year at Morgan County R-II High School in Versailles. Ryan was active in DECA, football, wrestling, track and field, cross country and weightlifting. He lived life with energy, determination and a heart full of compassion. He was a talented athlete, known for his grit and sportsmanship.
An avid outdoorsman, he found peace and joy in nature. He loved camping, hunting, fishing, running and butchering season with the Lutz family. He was also a skilled gamer, always ready for a new challenge.
One of his greatest joys was working on cars. Whether he was tinkering under the hood or learning alongside his grandfather and father, his curiosity and talent for mechanics were evident early on.
He was employed at Koechner's Manufacturing in Tipton. Though he only worked there for a year, he quickly made an impact and formed lasting connections. He loved driving next door on his breaks to visit his mom's store – never one to walk when he could take the scenic route. To him, coworkers felt more like family and he cherished that bond.
Ryan will be remembered for his smile, kindness and the way he made everyone around him feel valued. He brought laughter, loyalty and love into the lives of all who knew him. Forever young, forever loved.
Ryan is survived by his father, Matt Simpson of Versailles, Missouri; mother and step-father, Kayla and Andy Lutz of Versailles, Missouri; siblings, Parker Simpson, Reece Lutz, Drew Lutz, Macklyn Lutz, Atticus Tatum and Neva Simpson all of Versailles, Missouri; paternal grandparents, John and Teena Simpson of Versailles, Missouri; maternal grandparents, JJ and Kelly White of Versailles, Missouri; step-grandmother, Jackie Lutz of Tipton, Missouri; great-grandmothers, Linda Bartlett of Stover, Missouri and Marguerite Simpson of Earlham, Iowa numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, teammates and friends.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., Thursday, June 12th, at the Morgan County R-II High School Gymnasium. The family suggests those attending the visitation wear black and gold. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 13th, at the Morgan County R-II High School Gymnasium, with Pastor Brad Homan officiating. Due to the road construction, please use the road entrance on the east side of the campus near the baseball field. Memorial contributions are suggested to the family in care of Matt Simpson or Kayla Lutz.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.