Melvin Wallace Simpson, Jr., affectionately known as "Wally," passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Wally was born on November 28, 1956, in Ridgecrest, California, to Melvin and Fay Simpson. He spent his childhood near Wetumka, Oklahoma, alongside his sister, Susan, and brother, Dwight. He graduated from Okemah High School in 1975 and began what would become a lifelong career in construction immediately after graduation. He also proudly served with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for 20 years before medically retiring in 2014. 

In 1977, Wally married the love of his life, Rayeann Vass. Together, they shared 49 wonderful years of marriage. Through life's joys and challenges, they remained devoted to one another, always offering love, support, and care. Their greatest blessing was their daughter and two grandsons, whom Wally loved beyond measure. He was a proud father and an even prouder Papa, never missing an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and support their dreams. To Wally, they hung the moon. 

Wally spent many years in the construction industry and took tremendous pride in his work. If you happened to drive past a building he had worked on, there was a good chance he would proudly—and more than once—tell you all about it. He believed in hard work, took satisfaction in a job well done, and seemed able to fix just about anything that was broken. 

Another of Wally's greatest passions was his beloved Star S Ranch. He loved his cattle and enjoyed spending time on his dozer, tractor, and any piece of equipment that helped him work the land. He took great pride in his ranch and especially enjoyed receiving gifts featuring the Star S Ranch logo, which he wore proudly. 

Throughout the years, Wally faced numerous health challenges, but he met each one with remarkable strength, determination, and resilience. Time and again, he proved he was as tough as nails and a true fighter. 

Wally was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Fay Simpson.

Those left to cherish his memory and celebrate his life are his devoted wife, Rayeann Simpson; his daughter, Linsey Norman and Paul Carlin; his grandsons, Garrett Norman and wife Kasi, and Taylor Norman; his sister, Susan Lovelace and husband Phil; his brother, Dwight Simpson and wife Zina; his brothers-in-law, Rick Vass and wife Terra, and Kevy Vass and wife Stacey; and his father- and mother-in-law, Jerry and Rhonda Vass.

He will also be deeply missed by countless friends, neighbors, and loved ones whose lives he touched through his generosity, kindness, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Wally never hesitated to help someone in need, and the memories he created with family and friends will live on for years to come.

Though he will be greatly missed, those who knew and loved him take comfort in the legacy of hard work, dedication, love, and laughter that he leaves behind.