Joanne Simpson

Born in Cleveland, Ohio to Robert and Elizabeth Wardle, Joanne and her family later moved to Mansfield, Ohio where she graduated from Mansfield Malabar Senior High School in 1969. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education from The Ohio State University in 1973, and was a devoted and creative teacher to children in Kindergarten through 2nd grade during her career. She shared her love of reading with each student she worked with, including her daughters and grandchildren. On August 4, 1973, she married her high school sweetheart, Russell Edward Simpson. Their nearly 52-year marriage, and 57 year friendship, was marked by deep love, mutual support, and shared faith. Together, they raised a family and built a life centered on Christ. They served each congregation they were called to with faithfulness and trust in God.

Joanne was a devoted Christ follower, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and pastor’s wife. She will be remembered for her quiet strength, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith. She loved the ocean, singing and playing hymns on the piano and flute, reading books, scrapbooking, playing games, walking in nature, and taking vacations and going to church camp with her family. Her greatest joy was in loving and supporting her husband, children, grandchildren and in sharing her faith.

She is survived by her husband, Russell; her brother Doug (Debbie) Wardle of Columbus, Ohio; daughters Kari (Mark) Davis of Lexington, Ohio, Meredith (David) Robertson of Warsaw, Indiana, and Erin Simpson (and family) of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; as well as six beloved grandchildren: Anna, Kathryn, Elijah and Alexandra Robertson; Colton and Bryson Davis.

She is now reunited in heaven with her granddaughter Harper Davis, her parents Elizabeth and Robert Wardle, and many dear family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on June 24, 2025, at Calvary Grace Brethren Church, 13698 84th St SE, Alto, Michigan. Visitation at 1:00 p.m., service at 2:30 p.m., and a meal at 4:15 p.m. All are welcome.

Please share photos and memories on the obituary website. These will be gathered into a memorial book for the family.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

— Isaiah 26:3