R. Greg Simpson's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - Robert Greg Simpson, age 61 of Charleston, passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2014 in the comfort of his home. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, 2014 at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. Following the visitation a Memorial Service honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Chuck Lowell officiating. Inurnment will be in Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston. It is requested that thoughtful donations in his honor be made to Doug Simpson who will distribute to local charitable organizations as needed. Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the visitation or service or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920. Greg was born on June 6, 1952 in Charleston, a son of Robert and Joan (Blue) Simpson. He is survived by a loving and devoted family: his mother, Joan Simpson of Charleston; a brother, Doug Simpson and wife Linda of Charleston; two nieces whom he adored, Emily Simpson and Amy Simpson; a great-niece, Reya; and his dear friend and soul mate, Judy Hutton. He was preceded in death by his father. Greg was a Charleston High School Alumni - Class of 1970 and furthered his education at Eastern Illinois University. He eventually was employed by E.I.U. where he was a drywaller and painter for 25 years. Greg was a member of the Bent Tree Men's Golf League which fulfilled his love for the sport of golf. Using his best singing voice he brought the joy of the Christmas season to others through music as one of the Mystery Carolers and the Preakness and the Kentucky Derby were celebrated each year with friends and family at a different location of his choosing. Greg's talents were many and his interests diverse. He was a gifted writer whose descriptive words could touch your soul and his artistic abilities were to be admired. The indoor décor of his home reflected his respect and fondness of Native American culture and he truly loved the Southwest and visited there often. He loved being outdoors and in the summer he could often be found in his yard tending to his rose bushes. Good ole Rock-n-Roll was the genre of music he preferred and was a fan of the Black Oak Arkansas band - he was to be their guest of honor at Jim Dandy's birthday celebration to be held in Memphis, Tennessee later in the spring. He was also a Willie Nelson and Clint Eastwood fan, among others. As a lover of sports he could read a Sports Illustrated from cover-to-cover and if there was a community festival or fireworks display - Greg and Judy would be in attendance. The word ""stranger"" was not in Greg's vocabulary - he had a down-to-earth approach to life and an ability to relate to people, which made it comfortable and enjoyable to be in his presence. Greg was a friend to many. He loved his family dearly and he always made family gatherings an event to be remembered as he would always have a special activity planned. He had a close and loving relationship with his mother and his nieces occupied a special place in his heart. He was a positive influence in the life of his brother and was so proud of Doug's musical talent and ability -wherever Doug's band was playing - Greg was there with his never ending support. His family and friends have been blessed with a multitude of wonderful memories to treasure and share and he will always be fondly and lovingly remembered. Click to view Family Memorial Video.
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