Donald Lee Simpson, Sr.

Donald Lee “Don” Simpson, Sr., age 79, of Wellston, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, West Virgina. He was born October 13, 1946 in Jackson, Ohio to the late James B. Simpson and Arleda Rouse Simpson. Don was a 1964 graduate of Jackson High School who proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. Affectionately called “dad” by all his children’s friends, he was known for his pleasant personality; always having a smile on his face and a joke to make. Don retired from the City of Wellston where he served seven years as a dispatcher for the police department and later worked with the street department. Following retirement, he was employed as a maintenance person at Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp. Don was a jack-of-all-trades who loved working on cars, woodcarving and putting together 3-D puzzles. He is survived by his wife, Barbara A. Downey Simpson, with whom, on July 4th, he celebrated 57 years of marriage. Also surviving are his daughters, Rachel Brown (Shawn) and Yvonne Dubeck (Aaron); grandchildren, Justin King and Maegan Strickland; great-grandson Oliver Hensley; siblings, Ken Simpson (Kathy) and Bonnie Manion (Rocky). Don was preceded in death by his son, Donald Lee “D.J.” Simpson, Jr.; grandchildren, Morgan Gilliland Herdman and Damon Remy; siblings, Jimmy Simpson, Walt Simpson, Steve Simpson, Connie Manion, Dorothy Fisher and Dee Downard. In keeping with Don’s wishes, cremation followed his passing. Arrangements are under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home of Wellston. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.