Remembering James “Jim” Russell Simpson

It is with great sorrow that we share the news of James “Jim” Russell Simpson’s passing on January 31, 2026, in Kent, WA. Jim was born in Phelps, WI, on May 3, 1941. His family relocated to Kent in 1942, where he was raised as the fourth of five children by Charles and Lillian Simpson. He attended Kent Elementary, O’Brien Elementary, Kent Jr. High, and Kent Meridian High School. He attended Olympic Jr. College on a basketball scholarship. Jim was drafted into the US Army and served in Vietnam as a corporal. He worked at Stokley Van Kamp in Kent (later renamed Washington Cold Storage) before retiring after 39 years. His retirement lasted two weeks; he then began working for his good friend John P. Work in Kent and Fife, finally retiring in 2020. Jim was cherished not only by his family but also by numerous friends for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit. He touched the lives of many and will be fondly remembered for the warmth and joy he brought to those around him.

Family and Legacy

Jim was preceded in death by his son, Todd Denney; his older sisters, Dorothy Bredeson of Auburn, WA, and Jane Burris of Sawyer, Oklahoma. Jim is survived by his wife, Linda, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage; his daughters, Lauri Denney and Liann Castonguay; and his identical twin daughters, Jill Simpson and Jana Simpson. He was affectionately known as “Papa” to seventeen grandchildren and five great-granddaughters, all of whom he loved dearly. In addition to his immediate family, Jim leaves behind his older brother, Charles “Chuck” Simpson of Kent; his identical twin brother, Jerry Simpson of Kent; as well as countless friends and loved ones. His legacy continues in the memories shared and the enduring love he fostered.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 10:30am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 19714 106th Ave SE, Renton, WA. All who knew Jim are invited to attend and honor his memory.

May Jim rest in peace and forever remain in our hearts.