Norma Jean Simpson (née Trippett), 72, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Mill Manor Nursing Home after a long and courageous battle with illness.
Born on June 25, 1952, in Parkersburg, WV, Norma spent most of her life in Vermilion, a place she always called home. Though she lived in Michigan for 20 years, her heart remained in Vermilion, where she returned a decade ago to be closer to family and lifelong friends.
Norma found joy in life’s simple pleasures—being a devoted homemaker, cherishing time spent camping, visiting casinos, playing cards and bingo, and sharing laughter-filled moments with her closest friends and family. She was the heart of every gathering, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold her in their hearts: her mother, Kathryn (née Dulaney) Trippett; her children, Kathryn (John) Repko, Meagan (Stanley) Kreydin, Andrea (Michael) Thomas, and Grover E. “Ed” Simpson III; her adored grandchildren, Zachary (Chelsea) Repko, Caleb (Elizabeth) Repko, Seth Repko, Mia, Sarah, and Alexander Kreydin, Ethan, Jacob, and Samuel Thomas, Allison, and Grover E. “Eddie” Simpson IV; and her precious great-grandchildren, Kallie, Gunner, and Nora. She is also survived by her siblings, Mary (Paul) Freeman, Thomas (Karon) Trippett, Diana (Rick) Spencer, and Paul (Peggy) Trippett, as well as her dearest friends, Debbie Jennings and Janice Martz, who were like sisters to her.
She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 53 years, Grover E. Simpson, Jr.; her father, Charles “Ray” Trippett; her infant sister; her niece, Kimberly Trippett; and her cherished friend, Mary Anne Martz.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Norma’s life on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. Visitation will begin at 3 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 5 p.m., officiated by Pastor Jim Cooper.
In honor of Norma’s memory, the family suggests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 23215 Commerce Park Rd. STE 300, Beachwood, OH 44122—a cause close to their hearts.
Online condolences may be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.
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