Leonard Simpson, Sr

Leonard Ray Simpson Sr., age 80, long time resident of Waco, passed away Thursday, November 3, 2016, at C.C. Young Senior Living in Dallas. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, November 11, 2016, at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church (“CABC”) in Waco, Texas. Visitation with the family will begin an hour prior at 2:00 p.m. at CABC.

Leonard was born May 28, 1936, along with his twin brother, Howard, in Fort Worth, Texas to William “Bill” Simpson and Alice Holland Simpson. He grew up in Harlingen, Texas where he attended Harlingen High School. He attended Texas A&M University in Kingsville before leaving to be in business with his brother. Leonard and Howard, along with their father, Bill, operated several businesses as well as building several subdivisions, apartments, and the Sun Valley Motor Hotel in Harlingen.

He married his lifelong sweetheart, Leellyn Watson Simpson, and had two children, Leonard Ray Jr. and Lisa Gay. They moved to Robinson (Waco) in 1961 and joined Columbus Avenue Baptist Church. Married over 60 years, they enjoyed being with each other and family. He and Leellyn enjoyed traveling and taking part in CABC’s mission trips. He was a deacon at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, active in The Gideons International, and served on the board of trustees at Mary Hardin Baylor University. Leonard was passionate about the Lord, his family and hunting. He enjoyed many hunting trips with his son, brother and friends.

Leonard, along with his brother, owned and operated Leonard’s Truck Parts and Equipment, located in Elm Mott, north of Waco, for 45 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and twin brother. He is survived by his wife, son and daughter, daughter-in-law, Claire, and beloved granddaughter, Morgan. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Bence, and her son, Travis and family of Harlingen. Also surviving him are sister and brother-in-laws, many nieces and nephews and other family members.

Leonard loved people and people loved him. He had Parkinson’s and his family would like to thank the many employees and residents of C.C. Young who diligently cared for and loved Leonard. His care givers loved him like family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CABC, The Gideons International, or your favorite charity. Please at www.gracegardensfh.com