Beverly Ann Simpson's Obituary
Beverly Ann (Stokes) Simpson, lovingly known as Bell, was
born December 14, 1950 to Ms. Gloria Stokes (Bagby) and
Mr. Joseph Toran, who preceded her in death.
Bell confessed a hope in Christ and was baptized at an early
age during her childhood.
Life for Bell was adventurous and fun especially when she
met her childhood and lifelong love, Charlie Earl Simpson, Sr.
Their life together began and they later married March 19,
1987. Their family grew and more exciting times continued. It
was nothing to hear her affectionately say, “Let’s go home,
Simp,” “Go on, Simp,” or refer to him as a “jive turkey”. The
memories are endless. Their son, Reginald Joiner, preceded
her in death.
Bell soon discovered her love for helping others on their
journey to wellness. She was educated in the St. Louis Public
Schools and later obtained her LPN credentials. Her devotion
to the field of nursing spanned over 40 years. During her
tenure she received numerous accolades and recognitions,
ultimately retiring from St. Alexius Hospital in 2015. It’s no
surprise that most of her significant and lasting friendships
evolved from her service in nursing.
It was always easy to recognize Bell in a room because of her
infectious smile. To know Bell was to know she was fun, loving,
outgoing, enjoyed music and lived her life to the fullest.
There was never a beat of music that didn’t excite Bell’s
interest, from watching movies, attending live concerts,
watching her favorite band (Dirty Muggs), productions/shows
and sliding her feet from venue to venue. You could often
find her being the life of the party. She utilized these skills to
help organize the 9 of Club X 2 Social Club and assist with
the planning and implementation of the Turpen/Stokes/
Dixon Family Reunions. She was acknowledged in 2004
with The Winford Stokes Humanitarian Award for Outstanding
Family Service and Dedication from the Turpen-StokesDixon Family Reunion. There was no role more important
than being the “family informant,” making sure everyone
knew what was going on. There is not a family member she
could not identify from generation to generation.
Putting her love of music to dance, Bell participated in line
dancing throughout the metropolitan area. Her calendar
stayed full with sliding classes and performances. There
was rarely a slide she could not perform and/or teach.
Being with her sliders was the highlight of her past time.
She was a member of the Monsanto Line Dancers, STL
Metro Sliders, Bayer Senior Line Dancers, St. Louie Sliders
and Midtown Sliders.
Bell was a giver and lover of people; often putting this in
action with supporting causes. Her annual attendance to
events with the Breakfast Club, participating in the Susan
G. Komen Race for the Cure as well as the Sista Strut.
These causes were dear to her because she was a cancer
survivor. She proudly wore her pink but never mistake her
red and white Cardinal Baseball appreciation. Her love for
the home team was fierce.
Bell transitioned on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 9:09 PM.
Bell’s memory will live on with her husband ~ Charlie
Simpson, Sr.; four children ~ Donna, Larry (Simone), Eric
(Cathy) and Charlie, Jr.-Moochie (Shala); two sons through
love ~ Anthony and Marcus (Gladys); twenty-two grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; mother ~ Gloria
Bagby; sister ~ Janice McCoy; one aunt ~ Bernice Etok
(Etok); and a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Lastly, her three bonus children ~ Felicia, Patrick and
Rodney. Countless friends who have become family.
What’s your fondest memory of Beverly?
What’s a lesson you learned from Beverly?
Share a story where Beverly's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Beverly you’ll never forget.
How did Beverly make you smile?