SHERMAN - Jack L. Simpson, 80, passed away Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born November 10, 1944 to Jack and Mary (James) Simpson, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Rose Anne (Cocio) Simpson; and two brothers, William Barry and Richard Joseph.

He married Terry Lee Anderson on September 10, 1967 in Glasford, Illinois.

Jack was proud to be a US Navy veteran serving aboard the nuclear submarine USS Flying Fish.

He graduated from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale with a degree in forestry and returned to SIU to do his Master's studies in Soil Science. His career revolved around conservation of natural resources as he worked for U.S.D.A. Department of Soil Conservation Service and Department of Interior Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, followed by Illinois Department of Natural Resources. He was also a history buff and worked at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum.

A true outdoorsman, Jack was an avid fisherman and hunter and in later years enjoyed repairing and refurbishing fishing rods and reels. He especially loved to encourage young people to go fishing and appreciate the outdoors.

Jack is survived by his wife of 57 years, Terry; daughter, Margie Simpson-Snitowsky (Ryan); two sons, Tom and Jason Simpson (Jody); and four grandchildren, Jessica and Jacob Simpson and Zella and Leilana Snitowsky. Also surviving are a sister, Karen Granados (Brian); two brothers, Fred and Jeff Simpson; and many nieces and nephews.