Barbara Anne Simpson

Barbara Anne Smith Simpson, 84, gained her heavenly wings on April 16, 2024. Born on May 25, 1939, to the late John Lester Smith and Annie Mae Black, she was a proud native and life-long resident of Charlotte, North Carolina. Barbara Anne was born and raised in the Cherry Neighborhood of Charlotte, but she and her parents relocated to Grier Heights in her teenage years. Her love for her hometown was centered in Grier Heights. Barbara Anne watched her father get involved in the neighborhood and took the torch when he passed. Affectionately known as “Ms. Grier Heights,” she was known for standing up for her community and believed in protecting and promoting it at every turn. Not only did she maintain the flower beds, but she later became President of the Grier Heights Economic Development Foundation where she was one of the visionaries, along with Mr. Robert Gill, in the establishment of Harmony Place Senior at Grier Heights Senior Apartments and Grier Heights Community Improvement Organization. She was actively involved with the Grier Heights Community Center in various ways including the initial renovation of the center and organizing the annual Labor Day festivities in Grier Heights. As her legacy for community activism continues, while focusing on the greater good for all by building a stronger Grier Heights Community together the journey continues. Barbara married the love of her life, William L. Simpson, on June 3, 1964 and created a loving family that included two daughters. Her favorite role was being a grandmother and she treasured her time with her precious granddaughters, her grand dog, Metro, and local children she watched grow up over the years. Barbara was passionate about her immediate and extended family and was loved by many for her selflessness and care for others. Barbara was an active member of Grier Heights Presbyterian Church, devoting her time and energy to her role as a Deaconess and member of the Usher Board and United Presbyterian Women’s Organization. Her community service extended to membership on the Crossroads Board and Girl Scout leader. Her accomplishments and honors included being named “Grand Marshal” in recognition of her valuable contributions to the Grier Heights Community and acknowledgement of her hard work and dedication to the Grier Heights Community Improvement Organization during the Labor Day Reunion. Barbara attended Second Ward High School, Washington Junior College and North Carolina Central University. She retired after 32 years of service with the Charlotte- Mecklenburg School System as a Pupil Accounting Record Supervisor. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, John and Annie Mae, her husband, William, and her sister, Gloria Bell. She is survived by sister Sheila (Ernest) Nick, brothers, Raymond (Mae Roy) Weddington, Samuel (Jacqueline) Weddington, Wilbur (Rita) Bell, her children, Tangela Simpson, Teresa (Samuel) Watkins, granddaughters, Alexxis, Lauren, Courtney, special cousin, Violet Lunge, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Barbara Anne Simpson

May 25, 1939 - April 16, 2024