Ralph C. Simpson

Ralph Cleatus Simpson was born on July 12th, 1934, the son of John Austin and Bessie (Martin) Simpson. He grew up with eight brothers and sisters, Jean, Ernest, Walter, Wanda, Leslie, Bob, Loretta, and Nancy. He attended school and then decided on a career as a dairy farmer and carpenter, and so began the “Black Rose Farms.” On January 11th, 1955, he married his sweetheart and best friend, and together they shared 61 years and raised 6 children together. They called Locust Grove home, and there they did it all from raising hogs, gardening, helping his wife run her S&L Auction Service, to antiquing. It didn’t matter to Ralph, he loved to work, it was his hobby. He loved any chance to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren, he adored them. When he did have a little free time, he liked the old westerns, Gunsmoke and Bonanza being favorites. He was a kind and gentle man, never showing anger, helping where he could and always with a smile and kind word. He enjoyed the occasional trip to Dollar Store or Harps, looking for a bargain. His beloved Lucille passed from his life on June 16th, 2016. Ralph moved closer to his family and kept busy until his health would no longer allow him to work. He passed from this life on February 10th, 2022 at his home in Locust Grove, surrounded by the family he loved. He was 87 years old.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, mother and father, his wife Lucille, his brothers and sisters, Jean Simpson, Ernest Simpson, Walter Simpson, Wanda Simpson, Leslie Simpson and Bob Simpson He also leaves his sons, Ralph D. and Louis Shane.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Roger Simpson and wife Dawn of Locust Grove, Teresia Knott of Peggs, Billy Simpson and wife Sandra of Tahlequah, and Latashia Barnes and husband Benny of Floravista, NM. Ralph lives on in his grandchildren, Brandon Simpson, Shalon Simpson, Chantell Jernigan, Lance Simpson, William Simpson, Bo Simpson, Ty Knott, Joe Simpson, Anthony Simpson, Lacey Barnes and Chance Barnes and 25 great grandchildren. He also leaves a very special friend, Kerry Ray of Tahlequah, OK, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends and loved ones too numerous to mention.

Funeral services for Ralph Cleatus Simpson will be held on Monday, February 14th, 2022 at 10:00 AM at Reed-Culver Chapel with Pastor Rick Condit officiating. His family will have a visitation on Sunday, February 13th, 2022 beginning at 2:00 PM until 5:00PM at Reed-Culver Chapel. He will be laid to rest at Neugin Cemetery near Lost City, OK.

Pallbearers include Brandon Simpson, Shalon Simpson, Lance Simpson, Cleatus Simpson, Bo Simpson, Ty Knott, Joe Simpson, Anthony Simpson, and Chance Barnes. Honorary Pallbearers include Timmy Neugin, Kerry Ray, Lacy Barnes, and Chantell Jernigan.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.reedculver.com for the Simpson family.