Joseph Lawrence Simpson

Joseph Lawrence Simpson, 77 of Boykin Road, Hephzibah, GA, died February 28 at his residence. Born March 29, 1937 in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of Francis Edward Simpson and Grace Ellen Boner Simpson.He graduated from high school in 1953. Joe served in the U. S. Army and retired after serving 20 years. He received two Army Commendation Medals for meritorious service in the Republic of Vietnam.He retired from Augusta State University on October 8, 1997 after 20 years of service where he served in the Department of Public Safety as a Police Sargent.He was lovingly known by the students as Papa Joe. He was predeceased by the love of his life, his wife of 44 years, Rosella Maxine Carne Simpson, six siblings John Simpson, Grace Snyder, Veronica Grupinski, Vera Simpson, William Simpson and Rosemary Sorady. Surviors include his sisters, Mary Burke of Brooklyn, New York and Catherine Doyle, and a very dear friend, Jasper Cooke, his wife Judy and their families. Joe was the adopted “papa” to all five of Jasper and Judy’s Grandsons. Family will receive friends Friday 5 pm to 7 pm at THE POTEET FUNERAL HOME, 3465 Peach Orchard Rd., HWY 25, Augusta, 30906