WILMINGTON — Oscar Romulus “Sonny” Simpson III, 80, died Saturday, Sept. 5, 2020. He was born Nov. 6, 1939, in Wilmington to the late Oscar Romulus Simpson Jr. and Lillie Mae Kluttz Simpson.
Sonny attended the original Bradley Creek Elementary School until the family moved to Lumberton in 1947. He graduated from Lumberton High School in 1958, where he was a member of the basketball team and voted best looking in his senior class. He graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 1962 and moved back to Wilmington in 1964, where he began his 38-year career as a claims specialist with State Farm insurance until his retirement.
Sonny was an Eagle Scout, Mason, Shriner and member of the Elk Lodge 532, where he served as exalted ruler. Sonny was also a member of the Surf Club in Wrightsville Beach.
Sonny always loved the Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach areas. After the family moved to Lumberton, he returned often to the family beach house on Crane Street. After graduation from college, he decided to make the area his permanent home. He enjoyed socializing with his friends at the local Wrightsville Beach watering holes; such as, the World Famous Spot and restaurants. He enjoyed fishing with his kids, watching the Tar Heels in person and on T.V., oyster roasts and traveling.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sandra Stadiem Simpson; sons, John Jefferson Simpson, and his wife, Laura, of Raleigh, and Michael Brian Simpson of Wilmington; and brother, Jack Simpson of Wilmington.
A private service will be held for the family.
Memorials may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare.
Share online condolences with the family at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory.
