William Joseph Simpson

William J. Simpson (“Bill”), age 91, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026, at Jewish Hospital in Louisville. Born on February 12, 1935, in Louisville, Kentucky, Bill attended Male High School and spent much of his life building a respected career in the food distribution and sales industry. During the 1960’s and 1970s, he worked as a food sales representative for Clarer of Kentucky, also known as Southern Star, and later for Marhoefer Packing in Jeffersonville, Indiana. In the 1980s, Bill founded Derbytown Distributors, Inc., a wholesale food distribution company that he managed through the mid-1990s. He later returned to food sales with Salem Foods, which became Troyer Foods, where he continued working until his retirement in 2023. Bill was a hardworking and devoted family man whose commitment to providing for those he loved was evident throughout his life. At times, he worked as many as three jobs to support his family, always putting their needs ahead of his own. Alongside his beloved wife, Charlotte, he raised five children and built a home rooted in faith, perseverance, and love. A devout Christian, Bill was a member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church and lived his life guided by faith and service to others. He was a devoted grandfather who found tremendous joy in spending time with his family and cherished the special bond he shared with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also loved the game of golf and enjoyed the friendships and fellowship it brought him over the years. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Charlotte Marie Simpson; his daughter, Michelle Karen Kurk; and his son, David M. Simpson. He is survived by his loving children, Sheri Lynn Simpson, Stephen M. Simpson (Susan), and Alison A. Claypoole; his cherished grandchildren, Leslie M. Hamilton, David M. Simpson Jr., Tim M. Simpson, Elliott C. Kurk, Joshua C. Kurk, Justin T. Deeley, Blake R. Deeley, Kellen M. Simpson, Chandler R. Simpson, Landon J. Simpson, and Alanna Stanton Hasty; 10 great-grandchildren; extended family members; and many friends whose lives he touched through kindness, hard work, and steadfast faith. Bill will be remembered as a man of deep faith, strong character, unwavering work ethic, and enduring love for his family. His example of devotion, sacrifice, and perseverance will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be 1pm-8pm Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Highway. The funeral service will be 11am Friday, May 22, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by burial at Louisville Memorial Gardens, West.

William Joseph Simpson

February 12, 1935 - May 17, 2026