Silva "Lee"

Simpson

Mr. Silva "Lee" Simpson passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 in Jonesburg, MO. He was born on August 27, 1936 to the late William and Mattie Simpson in Tupelo, AR. Lee had reached the age of 90 years.

Lee married his loving wife, Betty Jean Tolley on July 6, 1957, in Mississippi. They moved to St. Louis, MO, raising their three daughters, Lee Ann Simpson-Wise, Karen Godwin, and Debbie Simpson. Lee worked for Pepsi-Cola in St. Louis for 30 years, retiring as a service technician. Lee made many friends on his service routes fixing machines in hundreds of businesses throughout St. Louis. He grew up with his lifelong friend, Max Jackson. Lee enjoyed collecting model trains and running his model railroad in the basement of his home. One of his proudest accomplishments was building his own home with the help of his friend, Bob Smith. He was a talented handyman who could fix just about anything, and he had a wonderful sense of humor, always finding ways to make others laugh.

Lee is survived by his three daughters, Lee Ann Simpson-Wise of Warrenton, MO, Karen Godwin (Rick), DuQuoin, IL, and Debbie Simpson of Wright City, MO; grandchildren, Leslie Brock (Daniel) of DuQuoin, IL, Charles J. Wise of Warrenton, MO, and one great grandson, Atlas Brock of DuQuoin, IL. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty Jean Simpson.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Baue Memorial Gardens in St. Charles, MO, at 11:30AM. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Association. Online condolences may be made at martinfunerals.net.