Donald Ray Simpson

Donald Ray Simpson, age 71, passed away on Friday, November 12, 2021 at The Arbors of Bedford, New Hampshire, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Boston, Massachusetts on August 17, 1950, he was the son of the late Norman Ray and Helen A. (Seltzer) Simpson. As a longtime resident of Sharon, Massachusetts, he graduated from Sharon High School with the Class of 1969. Following his graduation, Donald attended The University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Stockbridge School. Many in Sharon and the surrounding towns came to rely on Don’s honest and trustworthy nature as Owner and Operator of Simpson Plumbing and Heating.

Don balanced his tireless work ethic with his love for the outdoors. In the winter months, he looked forward to ski trips to his condo at Sunday River, making many passes down the slopes with his children. Summer clambakes on the beach at Buzzards Bay were his specialty. He loved every new adventure from hiking the White Mountains and canoeing with friends to scuba diving with his eldest daughter. Once autumn rolled around, he might drive to his land in Monroe, Maine, and spend countless hours in the woods hunting. While at home in Sharon, he used his firearms skill set to become a certified firearms instructor at the Sharon Fish and Game Club.

Following his retirement in 2010, Donald made his home in Naples, Florida, where he maintained his active lifestyle. He joined a boxing gym and enjoyed meeting friends for a few frames at the bowling alley. Donald treasured the time spent with his family walking 5th Ave to catch the sunset at the Pier, shopping for trinkets in Tin City, and taking nature walks around the Naples Zoo. In his downtime he enjoyed reading novels, tinkering around the house, or meeting friends by the pool.

More than anything, Donald was devoted to his family. As a single father he cherished the time he shared with his three children. He was always the one behind the camera, orchestrating memories and inspiring through action. He took every opportunity to turn a birthday or holiday into the most special day. Always the prankster, he looked forward to holidays designed around fireworks the best.

His adventures live on through his children and grandchildren; in their love and kindness; their compassion and success. Loving father of Rebecca A. Nolan and her husband, Doug of Chester, New Hampshire, Heather Simpson and her fiancé, Max Candidus, of Acton, MA, and Daniel Ray Simpson and his fiancé, Melissa Tryan, of Greeley, Colorado.
He was delighted at the birth of his grandchildren and loved taking an active role in their lives. Cherished grandfather of PFC Olivia Nolan, Jenny Nolan, Annabel Nolan, Lorelai Simpson, and Madelyn Simpson.
Brother of Bryant Simpson and his wife, Gale, of Sharon.
Uncle of David Simpson and Kurt Simpson.
Longtime friend of Roslyn Melia of Naples, Florida and Dawn Ellen Simpson

Relatives and friend are kindly invited to attend Donald's Life Celebration on Thursday, November 18, 2021 from 4 to 7 PM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole.

Funeral service and interment will be private at the request of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: www.alivingtribute.org dedicated to reforestation throughout US National Forests. And to www.apdaparkingson.org and their efforts in the discovery of the cause and finding a cure for Parkinson’s.