Joseph Eugene (Gene) Simpson, age 81 went to be with his Heavenly Father August 27, 2012 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was preceded in death by his parents P.L. (Red) and Olivia Moore Simpson, brother James (Doc) Simpson, sister Margaret Price and aunt Frances Sharble. He is survived by his loving wife Sandra, devoted step – son Bill Dean, Brother Charles P (Herky) and wife Sandra Simpson, nephew Phillip Simpson, brother in - law Ed Price, and Several nieces. He was a lifelong member of South Knoxville Baptist Church and was a devout Christian. Being an outstanding athlete in high school and college, he received a bonus offer from the New York Yankees. In 1953 he played basketball in the All Armed Forces Tournament at Madison Square Garden and was elected Most Valuable Player. After 37 years of service, he retired from Chapman Drug Company. Family will received friends on Wednesday August 29, 2012 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. with a service following at 4:00 p.m. with Dr. Glenn Sullivan officiating. Burial was in the East Tennessee Veterns Cemetery (John Sevier Highway) at 11:30 a.m. Thursday August 30, 2012.

This Obituary is courtesy of Anderson-Laws & Jones Funeral Home.