Ray Simpson

Psalms 1:3 He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prospers.

On Wednesday, August 7, 2019 our Heavenly Father called one of his angel’s, Ray Dale Simpson who resided in Abilene, Texas for the last 20 years.

We will honor his life with a memorial service on Saturday, August 17, 2019 at 11 AM at the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 US HWY 277 S., Abilene, TX., 79606.

Ray Dale Simpson was born February 22, 1951 to the late Claude Judson Brown Simpson Sr., and Dora Marie Long of Lubbock, Texas. Ray Dale gave his life to Christ at a very early age. Upon graduating from Estacado High School in 1969, he followed his father’s passions by owning his own nursery and landscaping business for over 40 years. His passion for outdoors was amazingly beautiful to where he could tell you all the names of plants and cacti as he would pass them along the road as he drove. Ray Dale was a Lieutenant in the Potosi volunteer Fire Department in service to the community for over 17 years. He was kind and nurturing to all that came in contact with him. He valued people and had a heart of gold. He did not take anyone for granted and enjoyed helping others even after a long day of hard work. He was a humble man who enjoyed spending time with family and close friends.

His pastimes were fishing, gardening, cooking, music, riding his motorcycle, traveling, sitting on his porch, and collecting coins. Ray Dale’s friends and family will remember him as a hard worker called ‘Nurseryman’, smart and quiet a comedian, great with numbers, and a great story teller.

Ray Dale Simpson leaves to cherish his memory are son, Martin Wayne Simpson, Antonette (daughter-in-law) of Lubbock, Texas; daughter Alexis Berry of Lubbock, Texas; oldest daughter Annie Gertrude Saunders, Lamont (son-in-law) of Sterling, Virginia; seven grandchildren Heidi, Riley, Shaundaidrick, Derrick, Dominique, Chase, and granddaughter (Alexis); three great grandchildren; three brothers James Simpson, Dave Simpson, Anita (sister-in-law), and Cecil Simpson; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Ray Dale is also survived by his extended family, his love Barbara Young and family, along with Donnalynn (step-daughter) her husband, Kevin and their son, Joshua.

Mr. Ray Dale Simpson was predeceased by his parents CJ Brown Simpson Sr., and Dora Marie Lester; two brothers, Robert Logan, CJ Johnny Simpson; two sons, Judson Dale Simpson and William Horace Simpson. Ray Dale’s wish will be carried out with interring his cremains in Lubbock, Texas between his two sons.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Potosi Volunteer Fire Department, 1622 Key lane, Abilene, TX, 79602.