William H. Simpkins (SGM, U.S. Army,Ret), who was known as “Bill” to family and friends, passed away on February 9, 2019. He was born in Vaughn, Georgia on October 28, 1932. He attended and graduated from Spalding High School in May 1951. He then went on to study at the University of Kentucky from 1951-1953 and played football (Center) for the Kentucky Wildcats under the supervision of Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army and served 32 years and 9 months serving two tours of duty in the Vietnam War. He received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal w/2 OLC; Seven Army Conduct Medals; National Defense Service Medal w/2 Bronze Service Stars; and the Vietnam Campaign Medal along with various ribbons. He retired in April 1984 from the Army.
Bill was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing with his family and friends, even making a “Hole-in-One”. He loved gardening and working in his yard.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Clarice Martine Simpkins of 54 years; his son, Donald B. Simpkins; parents, Roy and Sara; and sister, Helen (Guy) Woodruff.
Bill is survived by his daughters, Denise Fitzgerald and Deborah Ward and husband Tommy Ward who was a very special son-in-law; son, David Simpkins of West Palm Beach, Florida; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; a huge loving extended family; close family friend, Madeline Swanson; and his beloved dog, “Buster”.
The family will receive friends on Thursday February 14, 2019 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with the chapel service immediately following at 1:00 pm at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Virginia 23666.
The family would like to express sincere thanks and gratitude to the Intrepid Hospice nurses and aides.
Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.
May the longtime sun shine upon you
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you guide you on your way
You will truly be missed!
