Obituary of Raymond Leo Simpson

Raymond Leo Simpson, age 84, of Rome, passed away on January 25, 2023 at home.

He was born in Rome on June 12, 1938, son of the late George and Nellie McGarry Simpson. Ray proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. On July 27, 1963, he was united in marriage to the former Sandra L. Thron, in St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rome, with Pastor Paul A. Boriak as the officiant. It was a blessed union of 59 and a half years. Ray was a saint and the love of Sandy’s life.

Ray had a Simpson smirk that was known by everyone. He worked for Chicago Pneumatic in Utica for 20 years, then for Manth-Brownell for 25 years, retiring in 2009. Ray and Sandy then moved to Phoenix, AZ for 12 years.

Ray was a member of the Centaur Motorcycle Club, and the Henry P. Smith Post #24 American Legion. He loved racing his 151-stock car at the Utica-Rome Speedway in the early 1960’s. He enjoyed NASCAR, motorcycles, snowmobiling, sports, being outside with his flowers, and most of all, spending time with his family.

Ray is survived by the love of his life for 59 and a half years, Sandy; his son, Mark (Jennifer) Simpson; his granddaughter, Zoey Simpson; his brothers, Richard Simpson of Rome, and Robert Simpson of FL; a sister in law, Joyce Simpson of Blossvale; brothers in law, James (Patricia) Thron of Oneida, and Philip Thron of Rome; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, John and Herb Simpson.

Ray’s funeral with military honors will be held on Monday, January 30, at 11 AM at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rome. Burial will be held in Rome Cemetery in the spring.

Relatives and friends may call at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, on Sunday from 2 to 5 PM.