James Robert "Charles" Hunter Simpson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and esteemed community member, on June 10, 2026, at the age of 90. Surrounded by the love of his children, James left this world peacefully at his home, a testament to the life of love and resilience he lived. Born on January 8, 1936, in Chicago, IL, and raised in the charming town of Buckley, Michigan, James was the cherished son of Robert Hunter and Claudine Simpson-Hunter, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by his beloved sister, Thomasena Avery, along with his grandfather, James Charles Simpson, and Uncle and Aunt Joseph & Altona Robinson, his step daughter, Pamela Weaver, Son, James Charles Leyanna, and grandson, Chaz Williams. His legacy is carried forward by his surviving children: James R. Turner, Jacqueline C. Rogers (Charles), Joseph A. Turner (Beverly), Cassandra D. Leyanna (Marc), Carla M. Simpson-Woodfork (John “Jay”), and Kristina D. Williams (Calap III “Pete”). James was the proud grandfather to a lineage that includes grandchildren: Tiffany Branch, Jeffery Parker, Renard Rogers, James Leyanna Jr., Tierra Leyanna, Nicole Turner, Victor Turner, Marquise Parks, Marc’ey Leyanna Sr. (Tanika), Allante’ Parks-Chambers, Jamelee’ Williams-Harris (Zachary), TaShina Williams (Dominique), Angelica Williams, Desiree’ Williams, Michaela Wheeler(Keyon), and Calap Williams IV (Khloe). Great Grandchildren: Dominic Suarez, Janessa Parker, Xavier Lavine, Jenysis Johnson, Nathaniel Parker, Aliza Parker, Isaiah Parker, JoVon Leyanna, A’viare Parks, A’viana Parks, A’vimara Parks, Ah’nest Leyanna, Ah’nor Leyanna, Marc’ey Leyanna Jr., Ah’nya Leyanna, Ah’nesty Leyanna, Jay’Den Leyanna, Zy’Heir Leyanna, Kavosaye’ Leyanna, Chianti Kilgo, Jailee Chambers, Reign Williams, Sedrick Byrd Jr., Unique Dixon, Dominique Dixon, Derek Paige III, Alaina Coatney, Leah Stone, Carielle Griffin, LaKeith Smith Jr., KayLianne Wheeler, KayDence Wheeler, Calap Williams V, Jolynn and Kehlani Ybarra. Great Great Grandchildren: Is’nee Parker & Ah’naylah Leyanna, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. James spent his early childhood in Chicago, IL, before moving to Buckley, where he completed his education at Buckley High School. His career as a master of bodywork began in earnest when he founded Jimmy's Body Shop, where his talent for painting cars and motorcycles and his skill in metalwork made him a revered figure in the community. His shop was not just a place of work but a beacon of James's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence. An ardent biker and a proud member of several biker clubs, James was also a Mason and a man of faith. His love for the open road was matched only by his love for his family and friends. He was known for his big, welcoming smile, his strong and proud demeanor, and his unique ability to forge relationships that lasted a lifetime. James's charm, strength, and occasional stubbornness endeared him to all who knew him. James's love for fast cars and motorcycles was not just a hobby but a way of life. He embraced the freedom they represented, a freedom he carried with him in his heart—a legacy he has passed down to his children, grandchildren, and beyond. His life was a testament to the power of resilience, strength, and the ability to conquer adversity. A service to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of James will be held on June 26, 2026, at the James Simpson Home, located at 9899 S M 37, Buckley, MI 49620. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to share in the spirit of James's journey by embracing the open road, cherishing each ride, and living life with the same passion and love that he exemplified. As we say goodbye, we hold close the memories of a man whose spirit will never fade. In every ride taken, every road traveled, and every story shared, James's legacy continues. His journey, though concluded on this earth, carries on in the hearts of those who loved him, mile after mile. We love you, Daddy, always. PALLBEARERS Calap “Pete” Williams III John “Jay” Woodfork Mario Reeves Wayne Milks (Brenda) Shawn Milks Austin Milks