Wayne Kirby Simpson

December  2nd, 1948 December  12th, 2024
Carson, CA
Wayne Kirby Simpson

Philippians 1:3 "I thank my God always when I remember you"

Obituary for Wayne Kirby Simpson

Wayne Kirby Simpson was born on December 2, 1948, in Los Angeles, California, to James and Imogene Simpson, who preceded him in death. Wayne is survived by his best friend and wife of 54 years, Carolyn; his sons, Jason Wayne Simpson and Drew Wayne Simpson; his grandchildren, Brookelynn Alexis Lambert (husband Joshua), Nicholas Wayne Simpson, and Zoe Cardinale; his sister, Phyllis Tisdel (husband Arthur, III); his sister-in-law, Yvonne Williams; his brother-in-law, Leslie Williams; and his nieces Tiffany Williams, Macy Williams, Rhonisha, Amanda, and nephew Arthur.

     In 1964, Wayne noticed a poised and graceful young woman on his way to football practice at Centennial High School. Her name was Carolyn Williams. Wayne attempted to “talk” to Carolyn, but she kindly explained that she was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and did not date outside her religion. Wayne, intrigued by her faith, gave her a small cross as a gift. Carolyn thanked him but politely refused, further piquing Wayne’s interest.

     A kind elder of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Curtis Tisdale, began to study the Bible with Wayne, and he cherished what he learned. Wayne discovered the Bible’s teachings about the purpose of life, why we get sick, grow old, and die, the condition of the dead, and the hope of resurrection. Most importantly, Wayne learned that God has a personal name, Jehovah, and that he could have an intimate friendship with Him. As a result, Wayne dedicated his life to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on October 10, 1970.

     Wayne was an outstanding athlete, excelling in both football and baseball, and had the option to pursue either professionally. He chose baseball, where his love began early, starting with Little League at Athens Park in Los Angeles when he was just eight or nine years old. He became a first-round draft pick for the Cincinnati Reds in 1967 at the age of 18. Over his career, Wayne achieved impressive milestones, including pitching an extraordinary 1.21 ERA during his rookie year, earning him a spot on the National League All-Star team. He also played pivotal roles for the Anaheim Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Kansas City Royals, among other teams, leaving a legacy of dedication and skill on the field. During baseball’s off-seasons, Wayne remained steadfast in his spiritual pursuits, continuing his Bible studies and prioritizing his spiritual growth.

     And what of Carolyn, the quiet, thoughtful young woman who introduced Wayne to the Bible truths he came to cherish? While Wayne pursued his professional career, Carolyn focused on earning a bachelor's degree in science. After graduating in August 1970, she accepted Wayne’s proposal, and on November 14, 1970, they were married. Their bond, grounded in mutual love and shared faith, endured for over 50 years.

     Wayne and Carolyn faced a unique challenge: how to engage in the Christian ministry given their unusual lifestyle. A wise traveling overseer advised them to use their circumstances to witness to individuals who might otherwise not hear the good news about God’s Kingdom. They embraced this advice wholeheartedly, sharing their faith with coaches, teammates, their wives, and others. Carolyn has continued to do so to this day.

     Once Wayne retired from his secular baseball career, he fully immersed himself in his first love: serving Jehovah and his spiritual family of brothers and sisters. Wayne and Carolyn had the joy of regular pioneering together for four years, a time they cherished deeply. Additionally, Wayne was appointed as an elder and served faithfully, taking on the cherished role of Coordinator of the Body of Elders, a privilege he held for 33 years until the day before his passing. He aided many into the truth and was deeply loved by the friends in his congregation, where he was known as a loving and caring shepherd, always attentive to the needs of Jehovah’s sheep.

     Although Wayne enjoyed many theocratic assignments and privileges, he was best known for his patience, genuine love, concern, and compassion. He never turned away anyone in need of a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or material support. Wayne was a steady guiding hand, training, assisting, and encouraging others to tenderly care for God’s sheep. Even children felt at ease with him and loved him dearly.

     Wayne achieved much secular success in this world, but his greatest accomplishment was making a good name with his God, Jehovah. There is no doubt that Jehovah yearns to bring his beloved servant Wayne back to life in a restored paradise earth, where he will enjoy radiant health and be reunited with his beloved wife and best friend, Carolyn, family, and other loved ones. Until that time, we are comforted and encouraged by the words of the angel to Daniel: “But as for you, go on to the end. You will rest, but you will stand up for your lot at the end of the days.” (Daniel 12:13)



A Message from the Family
     "We want to acknowledge and thank everyone for all of the visits, phone calls, cards, and most importantly, the prayers during this time. Your love and support have been a source of comfort and strength for us."
— The Simpson Family

Order of Service


Opening Song… Song 43
Obituary Reading… Brother Eddy Gilkey
Memorial Talk… Brother Frank Knight
Interview… Brother Clifford Williams
Closing Song… Song 159
Closing Prayer… Brother Eddy Gilkey

Gallery


Memories/ Condolences

Post your condolences or share your Memories.


January 27, 2025
Thanks so much for being a part of our lives. Even physically as you there for the birth of my first son Richard. And thanks for always being a big brother and sister to my wife. We have always been amazed at the wonderful example both of you all set when putting Iah first and foremost in your lives because of that we know he lives in Jahs memory and Jah is YEARNING to resurrect! Hold that thought close to your hearts. We love ❤️
Orvil and Michelle Oliver
January 21, 2025
Bro Simpson Kindness and Love will be missed

Sonya Samuelson
January 16, 2025
I just found out a couple of days ago about Wayne's passing. I'm truly saddened. I really enjoyed interviewing him for his biography on the SABR BioProject (https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/wayne-simpson/). We kept in touch. He was a genuinely nice man. The greatest evidence of that for me came some years ago when the Toledo Mud Hens, one of Wayne's minor-league teams, got in touch with me. A man in hospice care wanted to speak with Wayne, his favorite player as a boy. Wayne did not hesitate in offering a terminally ill man comfort.
Rory S. Costello
January 16, 2025
Such a great loss. May Jehovah continue to comfort this family. A very loving family
Eileen
January 13, 2025
My dear sister Carolyn.
My heart goes out to you. Words cannot express my sorrow about my big brother and true friend Wayne.
His loving mentoring, guidance, counsel, advice, wisdom and loving training and support has strengthen me all these years. He is a big reason that I am who I am.

For over 40 years I’ve had the privilege of witnessing his great love for you, the boys, your mom and family as well as the grandkids.

You both deserve much credit for being such spiritual pillars, not just for the family but for the entire congregation!

Thank you my sister for being there supporting Wayne as a loyal, faithful and loving wife, friend and spiritual woman.

Please know Sandra and I love you and we are ready to stand side by side with you and support you in any way you may need and desire.

May Jehovah provide you the comfort you deserve for your faithfulness.
(2 Corinthians 1:3-7)

I love you my dear sister and friend.

Dear Jason.
Thank you for taking such loving care of my brother, my sister and friends.
I know it hurts but take some solace in knowing that you did all you could when he was able to benefit from your loyal love the most.

Believe me when I say how much I love and appreciate you. And how proud I am of you. ❤️😢

-your uncle michael
Michael Lee
January 12, 2025
We are so saddened about the loss of our brother we called each other roomy's when we saw each other because we sat by each other sometimes in elders school but we will see each other again soon
Lee Leverette
January 12, 2025
Brother Wayne Simpson attended my husbands memorial service and I did not really know him nor him me I was new in his congregation at the time but he was there for me I was so happy to see him that’s when I new he was truly a caring person then in 2019 I had to have surgery he was there for me from beginning to end and said a prayer for me not just one surgery but two I will miss him so much also I thank Carolyn for showing her love as well and I love you and your family so much. You take care my sister.
Linda N. Williams
January 12, 2025
I am so sorry for your lose. Dewayne Simpson will be dearly missed. Can't wait to see him in paradise
Lauren Moore
January 12, 2025
My thoughts and memories are of a very precious spiritual Brother I will never forget. His smile and encouragement to me and my mom Sister Dorothy Grays. We will see them again soon. I send my love and my prayers to Jehovah to comfort you. Sister Darby.
Deloris Grays Darby
January 12, 2025
My sincere and deepest condolences to the Simpson family. Bro. Simpson was a great man and when I was younger and I was in his congregation, he showed me and my family nothing but love and care as well as Carolyn. See you in paradise. Sending my love, Catalina
Catalina Alvarado
January 12, 2025
Brother Simpson was always a very kind Brother. He had a way of reaching you with his talks, and he always showed love whenever I saw him.
Alvis Johnson II
January 12, 2025
I always appreciated how He and Carolyn raised their boys. When He had eye surgery he was helpful in helping me decide if the same surgery was practical for me as I had a childhood issue, and I appreciated the time he took so I could be well informed. Family, just know it won't be long, and you are in our prayers and thoughts; a great brother!
Mattie Riggs
January 12, 2025
Brother Wayne Simpson was like a father to me. But he reminded me so much of my grandfather he was the most sweetest, kindest, loving, self sacrificing, helpful, brother you could ever known. I’m gonna miss him so much. But I know Jehovah will keep him in his memory and he will be resurrected. I love Jehovah so much that he allowed his son to sacrifice his life for mankind. And allowed humans a second chance of life. All praises go to him and for him I am grateful. My prayers are with Carolyn and the family. Love y’all so much.
Susie L Blumenberg
January 11, 2025
May Jehovah continue to give the Simpson family all the comfort and strength they need at this time of great loss. My Brother Wayne might not always tell you what you wanted hear but he would always tactfully tell you what you needed to hear. I can't wait until i can see my Brother again.
John 5:28,29
Alvis Johnson
January 11, 2025
Words are not enough to express how I feel about my brother. He was the most kind and considerate brother to me. I love how he showed how he feel by being there for my family and I. Waiting for the call that he is back. Also thank to his wife Carolyn for assisting him in his duties as our COBE.
Jehovah will take care of you and the family until his return!
Love you!❤️🌸🌺🫶🏾
Carie Valentine
January 11, 2025
Carol, so sorry for your loss, you both were a lovely couple that the friends appreciated very much. May Jehovah continue to give you and your family the comfort and strength to endure this most difficult time in your life. 2Cor.1:3,4. With love, Brenda Brown- My husband and I go to the Cottonwood Congregation in Moreno Valley
Brenda Brown (Thompson)
January 11, 2025
I love you and I miss you! See you soon ❤️
Janice Cooper
January 11, 2025
My deepest condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys. He will be missed. Until we see him again.
Patrick Eggleston
January 11, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of brother Simpson. He and Carolyn were very kind and helpful,especially during times of distress (Prov 17:17). May Jehovah support the family and may He help their hearts to always rejoice,because Brother Simpson has now come off completely victorious. Romans 8:37 & 38.

Brenda Riggs
January 11, 2025
The last time I saw Bro. Simpson, he and Carolyn had just left their Saturday meeting, going up ElSegundo. They both were very friendly and pleasant. May Jehovah’s spirit be with the Simpson family.
Donna Cox
Donna cox
January 11, 2025
One of the greatest men I have ever had the privilege of knowing and working alongside in Jehovah's service. Often I would have the honor of being called one of his sons or his cousin. That always made me smile because he was a large man with an even larger heart full of faith and love for everyone. I learned so much from him and his memory will never be forgotten.
Nolan Howard
January 11, 2025
I remember when I was younger, everytime I'd see him he'd say "It's Byrdman!" and give me one of the biggest hugs I've ever received. I like hugs and he gave great hugs.
Armoni Byrd
January 11, 2025
Words can’t express how saddened we are…
Wayne was such a great Elder and human being when we attended the same congregation with him and the family.

Although we moved I would still keep in contact with Bro. Simpson and when I’d call him I wouldn’t say who I was, but as I kept talking to him he’d say NYE!!” And we would just laugh and continue on with our conversation.

He was such a kind hearted individual inside and out and he no doubt loved Jehovah and loved serving as an Elder. He will truly be missed 💔
Truly look forward to seeing him again when death will be a thing of the past.

Our sincere condolences to the Simpson Family
1 Corinthians 15:55
Nyeisha Bryant
January 11, 2025
Wayne was an amazing brother. Looking forward to our 1st Basketball game together in the new world. He will be missed. Our love and sincere to Carolyn, Jason, Drew & the entire family.
Paul Lane
January 11, 2025
May our Prayers, our Love, Hugs & & our millionth countless expressions of comforting be whats needed every moment each of you seek Jehovah’s soothing salve to feel his consoling answers til Jehovah thru Jesus Christ blesses his permanent solution as Jesus promised at John 11:25💕🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰📖
Lucille Garrett-Private #
January 11, 2025
We will keep your family in our prayers. We are deep saddened and we will miss Bro Simpson because he was family to us!
Phillipus &Morris Family
January 11, 2025
He will truly be missed.9 million hearts are broken this day. We all love the Simpson/Williams family. All our love to you.
Kenny and Celeste Redway
Celeste Redway
January 11, 2025
My love and deepest condolences to the Simpson family for the loss of such a beautiful and kind brother. I really didn’t get to know you two as well as I wanted ti, but we’ll make up for that in the very near future. I love you. I share your pain. Will be in touch as soon as you feel like getting together for Service and lunch,soon I hope. ❤️🙏🏽🙏🏽.
Rachael Woods
January 11, 2025
My deepest condolences to the Simpson family waynewill be missed but never forgotten he is only sleeping waiting on Jehovah to say wake up Wayne time to see paradise with your family and friends.
JOSEPH VARNER
January 9, 2025
Love to you from Edna Smith and may Jehovah's love continue with you!
Edna and the late James Smith
January 9, 2025
OUR CONDOLENCES FROM OUR HEART is given to the Family and Friends of Bro. Simpson!!!! I recall being a little girl and Bro & Sis. Simpson was so sweet to me. When I would see them at Leimert for our Assemblies in Los Angeles, he always spoke to me. Sis. Simpson I'd pass by as she sat on the right side of the auditorium and she'd say"Hi Jamie and give me a hug". It was nice to be acknowledged as a little girl by them. Jehovah acknowledges us all and I'm sure he won't forget the work and love Bro. Simpson showed for his name. Love to you from me and you know Ron loves you as well💞. May Jehovah be with you!
Jamie & Ron Liggins
January 9, 2025
We had the loving privilege of meeting Wayne Carol & family who extended their love & generosity to our family even before we met them personally. We will always cherish the hospitality you showed to us & how our boys became good friends as a result. May Jehovah strengthen & comfort your family.
Garnett & Deborah Walters
January 9, 2025
Words can’t really express how Papa Simpson touched our lives. An amazing mentor and just always so available when we needed him even while he had so many other amazing privileges. He will be missed but we know he is in Jehovahs memory. Can’t wait to welcome him back to a paradise earth where sickness and death will be no more. Our condolences to the family.
Rodney and Tawana Cooper
January 8, 2025
What a cherished gem in Brother Simpson and in you too Simpson family! 🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻
Jehovah is honored to hold such a beautiful person in his memory. I imagine the space that Brother Simpson holds in Jehovah’s memory is glistening, like a treasured gem would, because of his love, loyalty, faithfulness, and diligent shepherding of beloved sheep! It is heartwarming to think of how Jehovah and Jesus remembers more of him than we can ever recount! My family and I will always appreciate his welcoming spirit and genuine interest shown to us when we would visit the congregation and share moments among them! It was richly rewarding to share with him and family in the ministry, in recreation, and in caring moments with others! A spiritual pillar indeed! There was a tender and compassionate focus about him, as he would care for his theocratic responsibilities that we will always appreciate. His firm and determined example of endurance is one that we want to imitate! Our family feels the sorrow of losing him! How rewarding it will be when Jehovah and Jesus allow Brother Simpson to stand up again! His gifts in life can continue to make all hearts shine! It is encouraging as we think of him beaming with joy to be reunited with all his loved ones!
To be continued our dear Brother Simpson….
We love you Simpson family! We stand shoulder to shoulder with you to endure his loss with blazing hope!
🌺 Rom 12:12 🌺
The Towner/Easly Family
Liana Towner and Quiana & Shawn Easly
January 8, 2025
The first day that I met when I enjoyed his conversation and that we had two things in common. But I had three boys and he had two a lot working Wayne, but I learned a lot of work with him because he had the ability to be humble and being the head of household, I admired. . Number 6:24-26.
nathaniel tate
January 8, 2025
Love this Brother’s smile and warm hugs and hand shakes. Always made me feel welcomed. Looking forward to the time when we will welcome him and all our loved ones back. Sending prayers of comfort and deepest condolences.Lisa
Lisa Lane
January 8, 2025
We are sorry for the loss of such a beautiful spiritual man. As servants of Our Loving God of all Comfort, we know our brother is resting and we pray you endure as time gradually eases the current anguish you’re experience. We Love you, Darian and Mary
Darian and Mary Gray
January 8, 2025
Our thoughts are with the family. It has been our pleasure to have known all of you. Bro. Simpson has been someone that has made you glad to have him as our “brother”.
We are looking forward to the time when we’re all reunited again. Until then, our prayers are with each other.


Orville and Sylvia Hill
January 8, 2025
Wayne was and will always be, even though he’s sleep, a beautiful person☺️. U could call and he’d come to see how he could help. I remember him as a mild mannered, spiritual giant. Truly one of the gifts in men Jehovah provided to help me and many others like me,to stay on the road to life. I recall one time I moved from Athens congregation to a congregation in Inglewood. I was initially so unhappy, I called every week to give Wayne my report about what the brothers were and we’re not doing😳. He’d listened kindly and when he could, he agreed. Then one time he said ‘just come on back to our congregation’. The very words to wake me up and learn to adjust. (And I wasn’t going to make the drive). I learned to serve Jehovah for myself w/or w/o family. But I knew I could call my big brother whenever I needed too. He was a spiritual giant in many ways . Being there to support oh so many of God’s people. He will be missed, but only a little while, for he too will hear the call from Jesus w/a loud voice :“Wayne, come out”! John 11:43
Naomi Diamond
January 7, 2025
My CONDOLENCES to your family,MAY Jehovah God help your family and friends through this difficult time of losing a wonderful and loving Man,love you Wayne!!!
RAYMOND Brown
January 7, 2025
I have fond memories of seeing Br. Simpson as he shared in the prison ministry near my office. . He always had a pleasant demeanor and smile on his face.
LaTonya Mills
January 7, 2025
We are so saddened at the loss of Wayne! Always an encouraging brother snd an awesome Bible teacher and speaker. How comforting to know he’s resting in Jehovah’s memory. Just a little while longer! Warmest love

Michael & Dorothy Morris
Michael & Dorothy Morris
January 6, 2025
I did not have the privilege to meet our Brother personally, But, I do remember when I was in circuit 37 how he was a wonderful tool in Jehovah’s Hand!
As a matter of fact I did meet his Granddaughter Brookelynn and I believe her grandmother at our pioneer mtg.
I am so sorry for the loss of such a precious brother! May Jehovah continue to give all of you Comfort and Peace💕💕💕
Sister Victoria Brown
South L. A. Cong.
Victoria Brown
January 5, 2025
I loved my brother we always worked together at the Assemblies and Conventions.Wayne was a big Ole teddy bear.i just loved Wayne, a very humble person and fun to be with.may Jehovah be with the family as we all look to see Wayne in the future in the PARADISE.
Steven Langford
January 4, 2025
To our family: Pop Simpson, Mom, Jay and Drew. It ain’t never easy to know what to say when a LOVED ONE falls asleep 😴 leave us, and we having to continue moving on 😔 without them. Pop was all those things said in the obituary and some 😊 He had a Large effect on a Lot of people, serving Jehovah and those not, but for me personally he helped me in a large way aside form my own Dad, when you said he assisted may into the truth, he was very instrumental in helping Keep Me in the truth!!
And it’s funny how i feel that Starting with my own father I’m loosing all the men that played a roll in my life as a single man and a husband. But all we got to do is CONTINUE TO FIGHT!! With Jehovah’s Help 🙏🏾 because really We All We Got! In this deteriorating system.
We love you all Very much 💙
And Jehovah is truly going keep you in his care right on into that new world 🌍 we got to make it!!!
Biz& Red💙🙏🏾👊🏾
Sidney C Phillips lll
January 2, 2025
I was saddened to hear of Wayne’s passing. On behalf of our whole family, I offer our heartfelt condolences to the Simpson family. I fully agree with what was said in the obituary about his kind and endearing demeanor. He was a gentle giant. I saw this firsthand as he and I worked together on a convention part as well as the many times in the audit department at the conventions. We’ll miss him.
Smith Family
Dwight,Sr., Michelle, Dwight,Jr., David and Patty.
Dwight Smith, Sr

Family tree

James Simpson
Imogene Simpson
Carolyn Simpson
Phyllis Tisdale
Helen 
Jason W. Simpson
Brookelynn A. Lambert
Nicholas W. Simpson
Drew W. Simpson
Zoe Cardinale
James (Jimmy)
Phyllis Tisdale
Helen 
James (Jimmy)
Carolyn Simpson
Jason W. Simpson
Brookelynn A. Lambert
Nicholas W. Simpson
Drew W. Simpson
Zoe Cardinale
Wayne Simpson

Favorites


What was Wayne's favorite Travel destination?
Yosemite, he traveled there every year with the family.
What was Wayne's favorite Kingdom Melody?
Song 159
What was Wayne 's favorite Restaurant?
Yamashiro, in Hollywood.
What was Wayne 's favorite Drink?
Bourbon
What was Wayne 's favorite Sport?
Believe it or not... football.
What was Wayne 's favorite Music / Song?
Jazz music

Service


Please join us to pay a last tribute.
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to Wayne Kirby Simpson. While we mourn the loss of a loving husband/ father/ grandfather/ brother/ friend, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy he brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Location
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses
1501 Figueroa St. Willmington, CA
Date/time
January 11, 2025; 4:00pm
Zoom event
Zoom meeting ID: 825 7524 3417
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82575243417
Share

Secure payment

First Lastname donation
Order total: $ 0
Your host will receive your funds within 24 hours.