David John Simpson

May 13, 1943 - August 20, 2019

David J. Simpson, age 76, of Lee Center, died Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon. He was born May 13, 1943 in Abingdon, IL the son of Duane and Myrtle (Berry) Simpson. He attended Monmouth College where he received a Bachelor's of Science degree in middle and high school science. David was principal at the Lee Center School, and then taught science at Franklin Grove, and for the AFC School District. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Amboy, the Amboy Knights of Columbus and the NRA. Professionally, he was a dedicated educator, challenging his students to do their best. During his free time, he was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, who loved playing games with his grandchildren, encouraging them to appreciate the beauty of nature. David married Sharon Hund in Galesburg on December 28, 1963. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Duane Simpson, Jr., and his sister Diane Schoonover. Survivors include his wife Sharon; children Renee (Mike) Grady of Dixon, John (Tracey) Simpson of Amboy, and Lynette (Andy) Thomas of Gladwin, MI; 10 grandchildren Aaron, Evan, and Collin Grady, Haley, Kelsey, Connor, Lucas, and Trevor Simpson, and Dalton (Sierra) Thomas and Cory (Bethany) Thomas; 3 sisters Doris Ruff of Abingdon, Darlene (William) Sayrs of Galesburg, and Joan Campbell of Preston, IA. Cremation rites have been accorded. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2019, at 10:30 AM in St. Patrick Catholic Church in Amboy with the Rev. Keith Romke, officiating. Burial of cremains will be at a later date in Woodside Cemetery in Lee Center. Visitation will be held on Friday, August 23, from 5:00 until 8:00 PM in Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy, with a scripture service at 7:30 PM. A memorial has been established to Serenity Hospice.