Rachel O. Simpson

Rachel O. Simpson, born February 1, 1934, in Northampton County North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026. A beloved matriarch and cherished family member, Rachel's life was a testament to resilience, love, and joy. Daughter of the late Emma and Smitty Hawkins, Rachel's journey began in Northampton County and took her to the bustling streets of Orange, New Jersey, where she attended Orange High School and later Southside High School in Newark, NJ. It was in Orange that she found her soulmate, Harold Glen Simpson Sr., whom she married on June 14, 1952. They had three wonderful children during their union; Carolyn, Harold Jr. "Butch", and John. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter until Harold's passing, which left a profound void in Rachel's heart. Rachel was predeceased by her devoted husband Harold G. Simpson Sr. and her sons Harold "Butch" Simpson Jr. and John E. Simpson. Despite these immense losses, Rachel's heart remained open and full of warmth for her surviving family: her daughter, Carolyn D. Mann, six grandchildren, Karon D. Jones, Derrell G. Simpson, Victor "Ronnie" Mann Jr, Erica C. Simpson, John E. Simpson Jr., and Glen H. Simpson, as well as seven great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, and extended family. Her career was diverse and impactful, spanning several decades and fields. Rachel worked for the Essex County Department of Corrections during the 1970s, moved on to Piquet Security Systems, Inc. in the 1980s, and eventually found her calling as a switchboard operator for Trinitas Regional Medical Center, where she worked until her retirement in 2021. Her colleagues knew her as a person of integrity and lively spirit, someone who brought her sweet and spicy personality to every task. Outside of work, Rachel had a passion for knitting and crocheting, weaving threads of creativity and care into each piece she crafted. However, dancing, fashion, hairstyles, cars, and jewelry was her greatest joy, a way she expressed the vibrant energy and zest for life that defined her. Rachel's family tenderly remembers her as a woman who balanced sweetness with a fiery spirit. "Momma ain't take NO MESS. A service to honor Rachel's life will be held on October 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The John B. Houston Funeral Home, located at 102 Sanford St, East Orange, NJ 07018. Her family invites all who knew her to join them in remembering and celebrating the remarkable life she led. “To eulogize is to look upon a life with charity and understanding.”- James Baldwin Today, we choose to remember Rachel with love, acknowledging the challenges she faced and celebrating the strength in which she met them. May her soul find peace, and may her memory continue to bring warmth and strength to all who knew her.