John Reynolds Simpson, II

John Reynolds Simpson II “John R.,” 80, of Glasgow passed away April 6, 2026, in his daughter’s Fayette home with loving family by his side.

John R. was born in Bakersfield, CA, on July 31, 1945, the eldest son of John Reynolds Simpson I and Elizabeth Jane (Dishion) Simpson. He was raised in Fayette, MO, with his four siblings.

John R. was a man of integrity whose words carried weight. His yes was yes, and his no was no. Not a man for mixing his words, he meant what he said and said what he meant. He had a big heart for providing care to those in his community, family members, neighbors, or friends who might be in need.

A veteran, John R. served his nation in the US Army and was a retired truck driver who dedicated his career to the trucking industry. When able, he often kept a large, productive garden and was always eager to share his crops. He also enjoyed pit barbecuing, and food was his known “love language.”

But when asked, John R. would tell you that what was most important to him was his family and being a father to his four children, Jana, Leslie, Amanda, and Clint.

Cherishing John R.’s memory include his three daughters, Jana Gilpin of New Franklin, MO, Leslie Hopkins of Bend, OR, and Amanda Symes of Fayette, MO; two brothers, Robert A. (Mary Ann) Simpson and Stuart L. (Nancy) Simpson; a sister, Sandra L. (Gene) Smith; five grandchildren, Kara Chipley, Alexis Szoke, Alyssa Defoor, Zachary Massey, and Wyatt Symes; two great-grandchildren, Zenobia and Addison; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, John R. was preceded in death by his son, Gerald Clinton “Clint” Simpson; nephew,Mikel S. Simpson; and eldest sister, Elizabeth “Ann” (Merlin) Kreutzer.

Following John R.’s final wishes, there will be no public memorial services. Online condolences may be shared at friemonthfreesefuneralservice.com.