Robert D. Simpson

Robert D. Simpson, 91, died Saturday, March 7 at his home in Gainesville Georgia following an extended illness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Wilta Simpson, his brother Jack Simpson, and his sister Mary Anne Simpson Wainwright. Bob previously resided in Tucker Georgia before moving to Gainesville to be closer to his daughters. Bob was born on January 19, 1924 in Corsica, PA. He grew up in Sharon, PA. While in High School his gifted tenor voice emerged as did his desire to pursue a career in music. From 1942-1945, he served his country in WWII as a co-pilot with the 13th Air Force stationed in Italy. After returning home, he married Jean Bailey Simpson, and moved to Princeton, New Jersey where he followed his musical gift and passion to receive an undergraduate and masters degree in voice and choral conducting at Westminster Choir College. Upon graduation he became an associate professor of Music at his alma mater teaching voice and choral conducting. For the 25 years he taught at Westminster, he conducted the Freshman Chapel Choir and led his students by his example of strong faith, integrity, and dedication to excellence in singing and choral music. He was a mentor and friend to many students through the years. While at Westminster, he spent 17 summers teaching vocal camps at Westminster Choir College,Ghost Ranch in New Mexico, and the Presbyterian Youth Choir Camp throughout the southern states. Bob was a member of Princeton United Methodist Church where he served as Minister of Music and led Boy Scout Troop 88 for many years. In 1979, Bob and Jean moved to Atlanta Georgia where he served as Minister of Music at Shallowford Presbyterian Church until he retired in 1989. Bob enjoyed a long, rich retirement where he volunteered his time and his talents helping to build 26 homes with Habitat for Humanity. Well into his 80's he continued his Habitat involvement along with spending time in his woodworking shop often with his grandchildren. In addition, Bob loved nature and the great outdoors. His favorite times while raising his family included annual camping trips through the Adirondacks and New England. With the Boy Scouts he hiked portions of the Appalachian trail.

He was a man of faith and he loved his Lord, family and church community at Shallowford especially his Thursday
Morning Men's Prayer Breakfast Group.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Jean B. Simpson of Gainesville, Ga; his son and daughter in law, Mark and Jane Simpson, grandchildren Erin, Matt, Chris, Lindsey, Neeley and great grandchild Macy; his daughter and son in law, Karen and Whit Blakeley and grandchildren Caroline, Ben, Patrick, Sam and Madeleine and great grandchildren Holden, Deane, Leni, Meg and William; and his daughter and son-in law, Anne and Ricky Ayers, and grandchildren Amanda and Robby.

Memorial Service for Robert Simpson will be Thursday, March 12, 2015, 4pm at Shallowford Presbyterian Church, 2375 Shallowford Rd,. Atlanta, Ga 30345

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following: Shallowford Presbyterian Church 2375 Shallowford Road, Atlanta Georgia 30345, to fund a Habitat for Humanity build; or to The Robert D. Simpson Scholarship Fund. Checks payable to Westminster Choir College of Rider University and sent to Westminster Choir College, 101 Walnut Lane, Princeton, NJ 08540, Attn: Kate Wadley.

Those wishing to make online condolences may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home 355 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501 is in charge of arrangements. 770-534-5201