Dates
John F. (J. Fred) Simpson transitioned to a higher plain on May 5, 2020 at his home.
He was born in Big Spring, Texas to Lucile Oliver Simpson and Nealy Fredrick Simpson. After graduation in 1956, he joined the U.S. Marine Corp, serving much of his time as an Embassy Guard, and receiving his honorable discharge in 1962.
J. Fred was employed by Cosden Oil and Chemical after his return to Big Spring. He joined the Big Spring Jaycees and served as President of the local club as well as State Vice President.
The family moved to San Angelo in 1978 to pursue employment opportunities. He retired from Conoco National Gas and Gas Products in Mertzon in 1999 where he worked as a Plant Operator and eventually a Measurement Technician.
He was active and passionate about his Masonic work, serving as Worshipful Master at 3 Lodges and District Deputy Grand Master for District 77 in 1991 and other appointments for the Grand Lodge of Texas. He received the Golden Trowel Award from his Mother Lodge, Big Spring Lodge #1340 in 2003. He was Emeritus Ritualistic Potentate and Emeritus Treasurer for Suez Shrine Temple and served as Potentate in 2003. He received the Grobel Award from the Shrine for service.
He is survived by his wife, Marianne of San Angelo, Diane Ditmore and husband Charles, Jon C. Simpson of San Angelo, grandchildren, Morgan Ditmore of College Station and Haley Ditmore of San Angelo, sister Della Bedwell and husband Dean of Amarillo plus nieces and a nephew and will be dearly missed by his family. He was preceded in death by a son and daughter, William Scott and Shawn Ann, from a previous marriage, as well as his parents.
An open visitation will be Friday, May 8, 2020 at Harper Funeral Home from 10:00am- 7:00pm. Family will be at the Funeral Home from 4:00–6:00 PM. Services will be at Harper Funeral Home at 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 9, 2020 with burial Lawnhaven Cemetery. Masonic and Military Rites will be at graveside. Consistent with the actions taken by many churches, congregations, and places of worship across the state, employees, volunteers, and attendees MUST wear cloth face coverings (over the nose and mouth). When seating please skip a row, members in the same family may sit together, and then every separate family should sit 6 feet apart.
Friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book and any remembrances may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or your favorite charity. The family wishes to thank St. Gabriel’s Hospice and Dr. Ty Hughston.
MAY 8
Visitation
Friday, May 08, 2020
10:00AM - 7:00PM
Harper Funeral Home
2606 Southland Boulevard
San Angelo, TX 76904
MAY 9
Service
Saturday, May 09, 2020
1:00PM
Harper Funeral Home
2606 Southland Boulevard
San Angelo, TX 76904