Laura Jean Simpson-Bearden

Laura Jean Bearden passed away February 6, 2026 in Wolfforth, Texas, at the age of 95. Laura is predeceased by her parents, Gene and Tommye Birdwell. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Cathy Craft, and husband Mel of Wolfforth, son, David Simpson and wife Delaina of Freeport, Florida, grandchildren Ryan Cowan and wife Kerista, Tyler Cowan and wife Paige, Dillon Simpson, and Dustin Simpson, and great grandchildren, Ella Smithey, Kaitley Cowan, Jace Cowan, Finn Cowan and Hattie Cowan.

Laura was born in Lubbock, TX, on September 24, 1930 to Gene and Tommye Birdwell. Laura grew up in Levelland, Texas with her cousins, grandparents, aunts and uncles. When she was five years old she began piano lessons with a neighbor across the street, Juanita Ratliff. This began her lifelong love of playing the piano.

Laura attended North Texas State College in Denton, Texas from 1948-1952. There she had the privilege of studying under renowned pianist Silvio Scionti and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Music in 1952.

Laura married Bob Simpson on August 20, 1950 at Austin Street church of Christ in Levelland, Texas. He received his draft notice on their wedding day. They quickly moved to Chanute Air Force Base near Champaign, Illinois. Together they raised two children, Cathy and David. After a marriage of 37 years, Bob Simpson, predeceased Laura in 1988. She married James Bearden on September 6th, 1993 in her home. James passed September 4th, 2009. Family includes: Dr. James Bearden, Jr. and wife Sallie of New York; Michael Bearden and wife Galena (deceased) of Texas, and Dr. Julie Fine and husband Dr. Jerry Fine of Texas. Grandchildren include Dr. Sarah Kosa and husband David of Massachusetts, Cathryn Yang and husband Shijou Nicholas Yan