Paul "Pete" Dunleigh Simpson

It is with deep sadness that the family of Paul “Pete” Dunleigh Simpson announces his peaceful passing at home, surrounded by his loving family. Pete’s life was marked by devotion to his family, distinguished service to his country, and a steadfast commitment to professional excellence.

Raised in Marblehead, Massachusetts by his parents Paul and Jean Simpson, Pete loved his hometown and its values and spirit shaped him and inspired his enduring love for the sea and community.

Pete attended Tufts University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science. He was an active member of ROTC and, upon graduation, served as an officer in the United States Navy on a destroyer during the Vietnam Campaign. During his service, he was honored with the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Upon returning from military service, Pete continued his education at the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, where he earned his MBA. He then embarked on his career in finance, working for several banks before joining Woodstock Corporation. At Woodstock, Pete built the company’s analyst practice and investment strategy, served as President, and ultimately concluded his career as Vice-Chair while always still playing the market.

In 1975, after being introduced by dear family friends, Pete married Madelyn “Leli” Carey. He was a devoted and loving husband for over 50 years, and is survived by his beloved wife, Leli; his sons, Andrew and Geoffrey; and his son-in-law, Sarkis Arutiunov. He considered his cousins, Jean Corcoran and Susan Boswell, as sisters, and leaves them behind as well as Jean’s children, Brian, John, and Sarah. He also loved Leli’s family, spending countless weekends celebrating life’s moments at the family home on Peach’s Point with her parents, siblings, nieces and nephews. Pete’s legacy as a husband and father is reflected in the beautiful life he created for his family, filled with memorable family traditions and vacations, unwavering support to his loved ones, his witty sense of humor and kindness.

His favorite pastimes were skiing, biking, hiking, and above all, sailing. He fondly remembered his early days sailing in Little Harbor and later his adventures with his family aboard his Bristol sloop, Orion.

Pete’s final years were marked by remarkable strength. With the support of his dedicated medical team and cherished family, he defied the odds and persevered for over four years after being diagnosed with stage-4 pancreatic cancer. He passed away peacefully at home with his family.

Pete will be remembered with profound respect, deep affection, and enduring gratitude by all who were privileged to know him. His family will hold a celebration of life for family and friends at the Eastern Yacht Club from 2:30pm – 5pm on Friday, November 21, 2025.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com.