Obituary of J. Ray Simpson

Ray Simpson died peacefully at home in the presence of his daughters on Monday, June 5, 2017.   Born in Howard Township on August 30, 1923, Ray was the fifth of twelve children of the late Willard Stanley and Janet Mildred (McLarty) Simpson.  Beloved husband of the late M. Ruth (McMillan) Simpson. Dearly loved father of Janet Hook (Dr. Ken) of Stratford, Jean Nichols (Ian) of RR 4 Blenheim, Eileen Lindsay of Blenheim and Anne Marshall (Jeff) of Toronto. Proud Grandpa of Karen Afghan (Abdul), David Hook, Andrea Webster (Sean), Emily Nichols (Marcel Verner), Rebecca Davis (Leigh), Sarah Nichols, Patsy Lindsay (Greg Yalowega), Allan Lindsay (Lauren) and Philip Lindsay (Lisa).  Great-Grandpa to Anna and Julia Afghan, Collin, Grace and Owen Webster and Henry Davis. Survived by his sisters Fern Simpson of Ailsa Craig and Ruth Campbell of Paris and his brothers Russel (Ruth) of Glencoe and Fred of Wallacetown.  Also survived by sisters-in-law Donna Simpson and Helen Field both of Ridgetown and brother-in-law Bob Eskritt of Blenheim.  Predeceased by his sisters Eileen Hayes and Beth Eskritt and his brothers Kelso, Max, Don, Doug, and Ivan. Ray farmed for over forty years and after retiring to town enjoyed many happy hours in his shop fixing and repurposing things.

Family will receive friends at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim on Friday, June 9, 2017 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at 11:00 a.m.

A Private Family Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Trinity Church Cemetery (Howard Township), the Blenheim Salvation Army Food Bank or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.