PAUL SAMPSON

PAUL SIMPSON 12/26/1954 - 09/22/2025 Paul William Simpson passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025, in Meeker, Okla., at the age of 70. Paul was born on December 26, 1954, in Shawnee to his parents, Bill and Dorothy Simpson. Paul graduated from Shawnee High School in 1973. On January 14, 1978, Paul married Ruth Ann Fowler at First Christian Church in Meeker. He served as a fireman for the Shawnee Fire Department for 12 years and later as Region 5 Rural Fire Coordinator, where he played an instrumental role in securing grants and funding for rural volunteer fire departments. Paul had a remarkable ability to connect with those around him, offering assistance whenever needed. Friends and family alike cherished his willingness to teach and help others in any situation. There wasn't much he couldn't resolve, and if he encountered a challenge beyond his expertise, he always knew someone who could help. Paul was not just a pillar of support; he also inspired joy and laughter in those who knew him. He loved coaching his kids, and later his grandkids, in everything from baseball, softball, basketball and football to soccer, track and field, and archery. When he wasn't coaching, he could be found offering instruction from the sidelines, the back of the end zone, or on the floor in the corner of the gymnasium. Those who witnessed his encouragement understood the depth of his devotion to his children and grandchildren. In addition to his community engagements, Paul had a vibrant personality that thrived through various hobbies. He found joy in singing karaoke, playing pool, and dominoes. He was also the best Trivial Pursuit player, often undefeated, who had a story behind every answer. Paul enjoyed working at the Meeker golf course, which gave his children the opportunity to play golf for free. One of Paul's happy places was on the back of his mower, mowing on his property or for his family and friends. As much as he enjoyed mowing, he usually let his children do the weed eating. Perhaps Paul's proudest accomplishments were his grandchildren, who were a constant source of joy and pride. He cherished the time spent with them and was deeply committed to being an active and loving presence in their lives. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Dorothy Simpson and his father-and mother-in-law, Winfred and Margie Fowler. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Ruth, children, Matthew Simpson and wife Lindsay, Marcie Simpson and Mark Simpson and wife Kelli, grandchildren, Charles Burland, Lola Burland, Alexander Simpson, Brady Wahpepah, Hazel Wahpepah, Cole Simpson, and Haley Simpson, sisters, Jean Phillips and husband Bud, Mary Gilmore, and Luann White, brother Greg Simpson, brother-in-law, Virgil Fowler and wife Rebecca, sister-in-law, Karen Manning and husband Gary, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Walker Funeral & Cremation Service on Thursday, September 25 during a time of visitation from 5 - 7 p.m. A funeral ceremony to honor Paul will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church in Shawnee. Following the ceremony, Paul will be laid to rest at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker.