Darrell Dean Simpson, a long-time resident of Moore, Oklahoma, passed away at the age of 91 on August 23, 2024. Born on January 29, 1933, in Esbon, Kansas, to Charles Franklin Simpson and Lillian Jewel (Arbuckle) Baylor, Darrell was a man of remarkable ingenuity and dedication. He was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Twyla Wacklea and Winsom Hayes, and his wives, Augusta Lavern Howard and Jeanne Simpson.
Darrell’s legacy lives on through his loving family. He is survived by his daughters Cindy Krosp, Amy Lynn Simpson-Krosp (and husband David), and Laura Balfour-Grice (and husband Ben), as well as stepdaughters Cecelia Campbell (and husband Gary) and Debra Betterton. His memory is also cherished by his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Jeffrey Simpson, Chase Krosp (and wife Charity Nichols), Matthew Krosp, Courtney Brown (and husband Matt), Sarah Jo Simpson (and husband Jake Rose), Madalyn Williams (and wife Azure), Haylee Dishman, Greg Whitaker, Jennifer Vanduker, Jared Edgin, Sam Whitaker, Gabby Whitaker, Pari Whitson, Amora Simpson, Lilly Krosp, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Lawson, Harper Lawson, Blane Brown, Ethan Brown, Caleb Holtzberg, Max Brown, Braxton Rambo, Mason Rose, Abigail Rose, Abigail Whitson, Jody Whitson, and Conan Novotny. He is also survived by his sisters Charlene Goeman, Charlotte Melton, Connie Claussen, and Mary Chambliss.
Alt text: Darrell Dean Simpson smiling warmly in a portrait, honoring his life in Moore, Oklahoma.
Known affectionately as “the original MacGyver,” Darrell possessed an extraordinary talent for transforming discarded items into useful creations. This inventive spirit was just one facet of a life characterized by hard work and a curious mind. For many years, Darrell dedicated his professional life to civil engineering, contributing his expertise to projects that shaped communities. Even in his leisure time, Darrell remained active and engaged. He found relaxation and joy in fishing and hunting, tending to his garden, and enjoying classic films and Nebraska Cornhuskers football games. His routine often included a visit to purchase lottery scratchers, adding a touch of playful anticipation to his days. Maintaining an informed perspective on current events was also important to Darrell, and he regularly watched FOX News to stay abreast of political developments.
Alt text: A younger Darrell Dean Simpson with a serious expression, reflecting his career as a Civil Engineer in Moore, OK.
While Darrell found pleasure in many aspects of life, his greatest happiness stemmed from the connections he shared with his loved ones. In his later years, Darrell embraced faith, dedicating his life to Jesus Christ. Though this spiritual awakening came later in life, it brought him profound peace and comfort. His family remembers his newfound faith and the sense of serenity it provided him as he approached his passing. Darrell’s message to those remaining would be one of hope and inclusivity: “it is never too late to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.”
As we bid farewell to Darrell Dean Simpson in Moore, Oklahoma, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by ingenuity, hard work, love for family, and a final embrace of faith. His memory will be cherished and his legacy of strength and affection will continue to inspire those who knew him. For those wishing to honor Darrell’s memory, consider supporting a cause close to your heart or simply spending quality time with your own loved ones, reflecting the values he held dear. Local arrangements in Moore, Oklahoma, are being handled with care, and further details may be available through local funeral homes in the Moore area, such as John Ireland Funeral Home, should you require information regarding memorial services in the community.
Alt text: John Ireland Funeral Home in Moore, OK, providing compassionate services to the community.
