Gerald L. Simpson

Gerald Lee Simpson, 89 of Pekin, IL passed away at 11:40am, Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria. He was born in Pekin to James and Nellie (Hyatt) Simpson on February, 25, 1936. He married Mary Reuling on October 15, 1960.

He was preceded in death by; his parents, one great grandchild, Blair Nation; his in laws, Charles and Mary M Reuling; Wayne and Janica Simpson; Norlin and Loretta Hardt; Glen Simpson; Floyd and Jeanette Denicus; Marvin and Carol Simpson; and Linda Simpson.

Gerald is survived by; his beloved wife, Mary of 65 years; one son, Michael Wayne Simpson; one daughter, Lauri Marie (Tim) Nation; one sister, Janice Rust; and three grandchildren, Jared Smith, Jamie Simpson, and Sarah Simpson; five great grandchildren, Shayne Smith, Amari Riley, Brynlee Dawson, Kyler and Oakley Johnson.

Gerald was veteran of the United States Army. He retired from Keystone Steel and Wire after 36 years. He loved to work Word Seek Books; snowmobiling, and fishing at his cabin in Chetek, WI. He enjoyed having breakfast with his friends in Chetek. Gerald received a Quilt of Valor at a ceremony at Pekin Courthouse on November 11, 2022.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025 at 11:00 am at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory, 2131 Velde Dr, Pekin with a visitation immediately prior from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin with Military Honors provided the United States Army and the Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team.

Memorials may be to the American Heart Association.