William Harry Simpson Jr.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Harry Simpson Jr., who left us to be with the Lord on March 26, 2025, at the age of 76. He was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and friend, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Born June 12, 1948, in Philadelphia, PA, to William Harry Sr., and Evelyn Simpson, he soon became known affectionately as Bill or Billy. Growing up in multiple locations throughout the U.S., he formed lasting friendships along the way. Bill was an alumnus of Oklahoma State University, earning a BA degree in Education and of Southwestern Theological Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity degree. During his life Bill was an entrepreneur in several businesses, but his main passion was always the ministry. Bill served in many different ministry capacities including Pastor, Missions, Evangelism, and Director and Chief Chaplin for the Baptist Student Union at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He loved engaging people and sharing the Gospel of The Lord Jesus. His education and life experience as a pastor, teacher and entrepreneur played key roles in shaping his lifelong commitment to impacting people’s lives.

Throughout his life, Bill was admired for his deep relationships, work ethic, kindness, humor, and his ultimate devotion to his family and friends. He had a passion for studying and memorizing scripture, praying, teaching, and witnessing to others. He helped to lead many people to the Lord. His life was one of service with a sincere desire to make meaningful differences in the lives of those he encountered. Bill had a real gift for encouraging everyone he met. His kindness was unmatched and unwavering! He had a heart of gold. He cherished people and was a great listener. He loved to tell detailed stories of how God has worked in his life and in others’ lives. Bill was genuine and patient in his actions and words. He exhibited God-given wisdom and was a true joy to be with. He was the cornerstone of our family!

Bill is survived by his loving and very devoted wife Sherry Simpson, his Daughter Janelle DeKruyter (Todd); Stepchildren Ryan and Nicholas Kelley, Jamie McCray (Robert); Grandchildren Elijah, Josiah, Adalyn, and Lucy DeKruyter, Madison Kelley, Addison and Isla McCray; Brother Lawrence “Larry” Simpson (Laurie); Nieces/nephews: Travis Simpson, Dana Williams, Heather Harrell, Bethany, Nathaniel and Andrew Simpson. Sister-in-laws: Melinda Simpson (Daniel), Sandy Bish (Jim), Patty Moser, Sheila Cantarutti (Ralph), Susan Harbin (Ray), Brother-In-Laws: Jeff Greene (Pam), Michael Greene.

Bill was preceded in death by his father William Harry Simpson Sr., Mother Evelyn Simpson and Brother Daniel Simpson.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Three Oaks Church, 502 Douglas Bend Road, Gallatin, TN. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bill’s life and share the many memories, love and legacy he leaves behind. A luncheon will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks instead that donations be made to one of these excellent charities that Bill loved to support:

-Child Evangelism Fellowship (Clarksville, TN): https://www.reachingkidsforjesus.com/

-Christ Light Church Pakistan: https://www.plymouthbaptist.org/ (for: Pakistan ministry)

-The Mosaic Calling: https://mosaiccalling.org/

-Hope to the Hill (DC): https://www.hopetothehill.com/

-Suba Environmental Education of Kenya (SUBA): https://missionwild.org/

-Samaritan’s Purse: https://www.samaritanspurse.org

Bill’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and the large number of people he impacted. His legacy will continue to inspire those blessed enough to have called him husband, family and friend. Thank you, Lord for blessing us with Bill!