Willie "Lee" Simpson

Willie "Lee" Simpson, age 90, a man who embraced life against all odds, passed away peacefully at his home in Japton, Arkansas, on December 21, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on April 24, 1935, in Fort Mill, South Carolina, Lee was the cherished oldest son of the late Paul Lee Simpson and Novella (Pugh) Simpson. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Jo Ann (Sterns) Simpson, and a beloved brother to the late John Douglas Simpson, of Gastonia, South Carolina.

Lee's journey was one of resilience, determination, and joy. Told at 19 that he had only months to live due to tuberculosis, he spent a decade in the hospital before triumphing over the illness. This experience instilled in him a profound appreciation for life, which he lived to the fullest each day. After years as a press foreman, in 1984 he and Jo Ann moved their family to Arkansas, where he found joy driving a school bus for Huntsville Public Schools. He found beauty in the small things: the precision of geology, the stillness of a fishing spot, and the simple joy of driving children to school in Huntsville. He loved animals, most especially his kitties "Buttermilk" and "BB". He was an avid hunter and enjoyed the outdoors whenever time permitted. He and his wife Jo Ann enjoyed searching for treasures at yard sales and flea markets, but most of all were inseparable explorers of the Arkansas countryside. His legacy of strength and his gentle heart for animals and children will live on through his loving family.

He is survived by 4 daughters, 5 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren: Daughter Lee Ann and her son Hayden of the home; her daughters Shiann Simpson of Lowell, her step-son Jacksen Myler, and her son Brentley Short; Shevi England Sidebottom & her husband Cody Sidebottom, and their sons, Kyson & Kayden of West Fork; Daughter Virginia Ann (Simpson) Horn, her husband Rob, and their sons Carl & Mitch, of Bull Shoals; Daughter Deb Simpson of Bull Shoals, and daughter Alice Nova Simpson.

A memorial service for his immediate family will be held to celebrate his remarkable life. In his honor, the family suggests exploring the outdoors he so loved.

To place an online tribute visit https://www.bernafuneralhomes.com. Arrangements are by Nelson-Berna Funeral Home of Fayetteville.