Ella Brooks Simpson died Thursday, July 23, 2015 in the Heritage House Retirement Center. She was 96.

Born in Moss Point, she lived a number of years in New Orleans and Los Angeles before moving to Vicksburg. She was formerly employed by the Valley Department Store for 27 years, and later at Battlefield Drugs. She was an active member of Hawkins United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert Upton and Jessie Ione Smith Canty; and her husband, Joe Simpson Sr. in 1983.

Survivors include her sons, Joe Simpson Jr. of Vicksburg and Walter Simpson of Atlanta; one granddaughter and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 28, 2015, at Glenwood Funeral Home with the Rev. Tommy Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Gardens Cemetery.

Visitation will be Tuesday from 9:30 a.m until the hour of the service.

Pallbearers will be Bob Marr, Pete Phifer, Burkett Martin, Newell Murphy, Bob Walters, Victor Cain and Bobby Johnston. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Susan Charito, Dr. Murray Whitaker and members of the Crusader’s Sunday School Class.

Memorials are requested to Hawkins United Methodist Church, 3736 Halls Ferry Rd.; Vicksburg, MS 39180.