Vivian T Simpson

Vivian T. Simpson passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2023. She was eighty-eight years old. Born in Lancaster, South Carolina, Vivian was a beloved sister to Helen and daughter to Mattie Threat Rollins. As a young woman, Vivian met and fell in love with an Army Corporal, Dudley Simpson. They married in October 1952 and soon moved to Knoxville, Tennessee. In 1966, the couple relocated to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where they raised their four rambunctious children. Vivian had a talent for organizing tools and home improvements and leveraged those skills at Scotty’s Hardware Store in New Smyrna Beach for more than 15 years. Those who knew Vivian knew she loved Jesus, instant coffee, and watching Charles Stanley’s sermons on television. Whether getting everyone’s attention by yelling “Ding, ding, ding!” at gatherings or lecturing her grandchildren on the dangers of opening their “honeymoon package” before marriage, she loved her family and enjoyed sharing her wisdom with others. Vivian is preceded in death by her mother, Mattie; sister, Helen; and husband of 39 years, Dudley. She is survived by their four children: Kay Lee (Ken), Phyllis Oetting (Carl), Michael Simpson (Carol), and James Simpson (Sandy); ten grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Vivian will be greatly missed by her family and friends. A memorial service will be on Friday, February 3, 2023, at 1:30 PM at First Baptist Church Orange Park located at 1149 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073. While flowers are welcome, the family also asks you to consider making a donation to your local church. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/jacksonville-cremation for the Simpson family.