James E. Simpson (Jim) passed away peacefully at home on Aug 1, 2026. He is preceded in death by parents, Eleanor Ruth Simpson and Edward Clyde Simpson; sister, Mildred Simpson Whaley and brother-in-law, Jerry Whaley; and brother-in-law, Tom Richey. Survived by wife, Linda Fowler, and the Fowler family, Jeff Fowler, Sam and Kristi Fowler (grandkids Eli and Emery), Thomas and Erin Fowler (grandkids Luke and Lauren), as well as mother-in-law, Jean Duley, and brother-in-law, Kenny Duley (Carla). Survived by sister, Charlotte Simpson Richey; nieces, Toni Mcelyea (Clint), Carrie Beth Hall (Scott), Amanda Cobble (Chad), Susan Wilson (Ray); nephew, Thomas Richey (Suzanne), and special friends, Steve Hicks and Derek Richards. He was also beloved by many great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Jim was a kind-hearted, generous person who had a way of connecting with everyone. He was a gifted mechanic and could fix almost anything. Jim loved model trains, running them, repairing, and improving them. He attended train shows regularly. Jim was an avid gardener and loved growing okra, beans, and tomatoes for the table. Jim loved classic cars, especially Mustangs, and riding his motorcycle. He played guitar and sang, and even served as the church's choir director. He was a man of faith. His storytelling and infectious laugh were always a treat to hear. Jim loved his dogs, Piper and Bennie. Jim especially loved traveling with his wife, Linda, across the country looking at beautiful private and public gardens with a group they belonged to called the Garden Gallivants.

Jim retired from Mayo’s Garden Center after 15 years, where he was assistant manager at the Powell location and drove the truck and delivered lawn and garden equipment. Over the years, Jim drove for other companies, including White Stores and Food City. He worked at Clark America Printing in Forks of the River and at UT Knoxville doing fire extinguisher inspections. Jim graduated from Holston High School Class of 1976. Jim had an associate’s degree in liberal arts from Carson-Newman University. Jim will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Jim can be sent to the Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley, 6717 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919.

The family will receive friends from 12:00-1:00 pm, Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Holley Gamble Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Oak Ridge Memorial Park.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to serve the Simpson family. www.Holleygamble.com.