Theodore A. "Ted" Simpson, Sr., age 88, of Wellston, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe, Ohio.  He was born December 14, 1936 in Jackson County, Ohio, son of the late Orville Simpson and Ida Mae Shook Simpson.  Ted graduated from Coalton High School with the class of 1956.  He was a former employee of Penn Central and DT&I Railroad for 15 years prior to working as a coal miner at Meigs Mine #1 and #3, from where he retired following 23 years of employment.  Ted was a collector of coins and ancient Indian artifacts and liked hunting for arrowheads.  He was a dedicated farmer who enjoyed fishing, woodworking and watching the birds, and always had a great story to tell others.  Over the years, Ted was a devoted supporter of the Jackson County Fair and livestock sale, having attended this year's fair just days prior to his passing.  He is survived by his children, Morris Simpson (Candy), Brenda Preston (Len), Todd Simpson (Linda), and Joseph Simpson (Heather); sister, Shirley Backus (Dave); sister-in-law, Marlene Simpson; along with 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.  Besides his parents, Ted was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Grace Ann Trace Simpson in 2001; son, Ted Simpson, Jr.; grandson, Adam Preston; and siblings, Florence Lansing (Sam), Anna Butts (Bill), Jenny Heartly (Lowell), Ivy Hutchison (Ben), Ruth Exline (Hick), Margie Hembree (Chuck), Larry Simpson, George Simpson (Geraldine), Eddie Simpson (Doris), and Calvin Simpson (Marilyn).  Calling hours will be Wednesday, July 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Funeral service will follow the calling hours at 1 p.m. with Pastor Randy Patterson officiating.  Burial will be in the Byer Cemetery.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.