Elaine Regina O'Brien Simpson

SIMPSON, Elaine Regina- Died March 18, 2012 after a brief illness. Born September 26, 1931 in Hollis, L.I., NY. Preceded in death by parents, William P. and Susan R. O’Brien; sister, Suzanne N. Smith; brothers, Kennedy and William. Elaine received her BA from The College of St. Elizabeth and her MA in Education from New York University. She taught middle school history for many years in Nashville. Elaine was the first recipient of the prestigious Teacher of the Year award and Honor Chair at the Harpeth Hall School. She was beloved by her students, one of whom upon meeting Elaine several years after graduation remarked, “You were as tough as nails and as soft as a rose petal.” She is survived by her husband of 58 years, William Gordon Simpson; daughter, Regina Anne Griffith (James) and son, Gregory Gordon Simpson (Mary). She is also survived by the joys of her life, grandsons, Kevin James (Lindsey), Brian Michael and Jonathan Gerard Griffith; and William Grant, Austin Craig and Kyle Patrick Simpson; and a host of nieces and nephews. Mass of Resurrection will be held 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to service Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at St. Henry Catholic Church. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. with a rosary service at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Marshall-Donnelly-Combs Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contribution to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson St. Nashville, TN 37203 would be appreciated. MARSHALL-DONNELLY-COMBS FUNERAL HOME, (615) 327-1111