Tribute

Jerry Simpson was born in Bakersfield, CA. He attended Palo Verde High School in Blythe, CA. Lived all throughout the greater California area throughout his life, and ultimately settled in Salinas, CA again up until his passing. He made many life long friends through the years and still kept in touch with many despite the distance. He spent his life working in Agriculture. As a kid, he spent many summers working along side his Grandparents Jack and Betty Simpson in the cotton, He worked for many coolers throughout the central coast as a forklift operator seasonally, and even pursued a side venture of organic farming after receiving certifications through ALBA at Hartnell College in Salinas. He loved music, was a gemstone enthusiast, building wood furniture, fishing, and spending time amongst friends. He tried to make the most of everyday, even after he got sick in February he still tried to keep busy. The pain and exhaustion from the cancer wasn't enough to keep him from several casino trips in the months leading up to his passing. As a family, it was hard watching Jerry go downhill so quickly over these four short months since his diagnosis, but we are thankful to the Science Care program for giving us the opportunity to help Jerry's legacy live on through his contribution. We are happy to be part of this program. Our hope is that one day no one will have to go through what Jerry did following the onset of his illness. Given Jerry's diagnosis, we believe Jerry would be humbled to be part of a cure that didn't exist when he was diagnosed. The family would also like to thank Dr. Elena Johns, Dr. Brianne Walker, and Sonia at Salinas Valley Health Palliative Medicine. You ladies were the most accommodating and empathetic healthcare providers we encountered throughout the whole journey. We appreciate the three of you immensely. A celebration of life will be held on a later date thanks to the efforts of Central Coast Cooling where Jerry was employed for helping us be able to make it happen. We are blessed to have such a great support system at this time.

Friends & Family

Jerry leaves behind his Mother, Doris Simpson of Salinas. Sister, Gena Simpson of Salinas. Niece, Kenedee Menefee of Salinas. Family friends, Joe Ferreira, Chris Cota, & Lynn Krenke of Salinas. And Val Esler of Blythe, CA. And numerous cousins throughout the greater California and Oklahoma. Jerry is preceded in death by his father, Gene Simpson. His brother Jeffery Simpson. And a few close friends that left before him. We hope they have all been reunited by now and take solace in knowing he is no longer in pain.