Ellis Ray Simpson, 78, of Lexington, passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2018.  Mr. Simpson was a faithful member and deacon of New Hope Baptist Church, a veteran of the United States Army, and retired from the Labor Union.

He is survived by his sons, Anthony, Gerald (Shelia), Derrick (Debbie), Eric (Vickie) Simpson; daughters, Deborah Brown and Patricia Tate (Brent); grandchildren, Rachel Abernathy (Jeremy), Melody Casey Aldridge (Jake), Emily Kizer (Jeremy), Michael Simpson (Misty), Colby Simpson, Collin Brown, Alex Simpson, and Drew Tate; step-granddaughter, Christie Carlson (Jeremy); 8 great-grandchildren and step great-grandchidren; brother, Merrill Simpson; sisters, Evie Childress, Sandra Vess, Diane Hardison, Sue Tidwell, and Sharon Rittenberry; numerous nieces and nephews; also special friends Bobby and Terry Ann Chittam, whom he loved and considered as family.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Louise Simpson; daughter, Rene Simpson; parents, Ottis and Zora Simpson; brothers, Charles and Leander Simpson; sisters, Shelby Simpson and Reba Mitchell.

Visitation will be Saturday, May 19, 2018, 11 AM to 1 PM at Elkins East Chapel.  Funeral services will follow at 1 PM in the chapel with Bro. Bobby Walton and Bro. Harley Hollingsworth officiating.  Pallbearers will be Michael, Colby, and Alex Simpson, Collin Brown, Bobby Chittam, and Travis White.  Honorary pallbearer will be Drew Tate.  Burial will be in New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery, 4571 County Road 76, Rogersville, Alabama 35652.

You are invited to leave condolences at www.elkinsfuneralhome.com .