Michael J. Simpson

Michael J. Simpson

Michael J. Simpson

February 20, 1957~February 01, 2025

Michael John Simpson was born on February 20, 1957, in Brockton, Massachusetts, to Annie (Myska) and George Simpson. He passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025, with his devoted wife, Denise (Whitelaw) Simpson, by his side, his son Michael (Miguel) was here from Rhode Island and they were able to be together as well.

In 1971, Michael’s family moved from Brockton to New Port Richey, Florida, where he attended Gulf Junior High School and Gulf High School. In 1974, at the age of 17, Michael made the decision, with his father’s permission, to join the United States Navy.

He served as a Culinary Specialist at several US Navy bases, including Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Charleston, South Carolina; Rota, Spain; and aboard the USS Joseph Hewes (1976-1978). While in Rota, he met and married Maggie Smith, from Cranston, Rhode Island. Though he didn’t have any brothers growing up, Michael formed lifelong bonds with his Navy brothers, including Lenny, Sanchez, Elliott, Mink, DZ, and Roy, among others. These friendships lasted well beyond their military service.

After serving 10 years in the Navy, Michael and Maggie decided to leave military life and return to the States. They settled in Rhode Island, where their son, Michael John Simpson (Miguel), was born in 1986. Michael worked in the restaurant industry for several years at the historic Arcade building in Providence. Following his divorce from Maggie in 1989, Michael moved back to Florida to be near his parents.

In New Port Richey, Michael worked in food sales which began bartending. In 1994, he reconnected with Denise Whitelaw, a childhood friend of his sister’s. Michael and Denise married in August 1996. In 2008, they opened Fatty & Mabel’s, a restaurant at the mouth of the Pithlachascotee River named lovingly after the nicknames his parents used for each other. The restaurant thrived until the recession hit in 2011, after which Michael returned to the food sales industry. Known for his natural salesmanship, Michael often said, “People buy from people, but you can’t sell from an empty wagon.”

Michael was also a devoted member of the VFW Post 6180 Donald Michels Jr,, where he formed lasting friendships with fellow veterans who continued to support him and Denise.

Michael passed away after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Annie Simpson. Michael is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 28 years, Denise Whitelaw Simpson; his son, Michael (Miguel) who was his pride and joy; his sister, Mia (Bob) Butler; his nephew, US Navy LCDR Shane (Dominique) Haydon; his niece, Sara (Kiel) Naumann; and his grand nieces and nephews, Nora, Harper, Rowan, and Lucy, who brought him much joy. He is also survived by Denise’s family, whom he considered his own, including his mother-in-law, Marylou Whitelaw; sister-in-law, Debi (Jim) Vranek; nephews Jimmy (Kim), Bryan (Roxanne), and their children, Spencer, Ian, and Westen; and brother-in-law Rob Whitelaw (Mary) and their sons Dalton, Joshua, and Logan, who all loved him dearly.

As his sister Mia fondly recalled, “Michael could talk to anyone. He could talk to the dead guy at the end of the bar, and the guy would talk back.” That was the magic of his personality—he was loyal, charismatic, and always the conversationalist. One of Michael’s most endearing qualities was his smile, he was perpetual upbeat, happy and loved and lived life which he infused in others. When you met Michael, he became your friend instantly because of his love of life and people. He was always a champion for veterans; he believed they deserve respect and all the benefits given and more.

A celebration of Michael’s Love and Life will be on March 1, 2025 at 3pm at the VFW 6180 at 11551 Osceola Dr, New Port Richey FL 34654, In lieu of flowers donations to Tunnel to Towers Foundation in his name would be greatly appreciated. Visit online at T2T.org

 

Condolence

Kathleen Hunt

February 10, 2025, 1:28 pm

Michael, it was such a joy becoming your neighbor. You were such a joy to our neighborhood and you are so missed.

Gary & Kathy Robinson

February 10, 2025, 2:34 pm

Ourhearts are broken for you Denise as we learn of Michael’s passing. He is now at peace and we pray that your wonderful memories will help ease your pain over time. We love you Denise ❤️🙏❤️

Cheryl emmi

February 10, 2025, 2:57 pm

I am proud that I can call him my friend we had fun planning events and just talking. I will miss my friend

Mark and Mindy Bower

February 10, 2025, 4:29 pm

Denise…we are so sorry to hear of Michael’s passing! Please know that we are thinking of you and keeping you in our prayers! Please let us know if you need anything at all!

Kent and Danielle Russ

February 10, 2025, 6:18 pm

Denise, Mia and extended family,
Our hearts are heavy for your loss. Please know that we are wishing you peace and comfort. Much love and prayers

Joe Cesarini

February 10, 2025, 6:57 pm

Denise although we have never met we would like to extend our condolences to you and Michael’s family. I remember Michael growing up in Brockton & Bridgewater Ma.
as we were cousins and had family get togethers frequently. He had that infectious smile & personality since he was a kid. Unfortunately as time passed we lost contact with each other and only saw him a few times after he moved from Massachusetts. I can still envision his smile and sense of humor. I will never forget my cousin Michael and he will always be in our hearts.
Joe & Nancy Cesarini

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