Obituary of Gordon J. Simpson

Albany NY- Gordon J Simpson “Poppy,” 88 of Albany passed away peacefully with his

family by his side on Monday, January 29, 2024. He was the son of the late Gordon and Evalyn Adriance Simpson.

He was born in Catskill on September 3, 1935. He met the love of his life and future wife Yvonne McCarthy after they were set up on a blind date by his uncle. They were happily married for 65 years and spent many years residing in Greenville, NY.

Gordon was a college professor and took great pride in teaching business courses to college students at both SUNY Albany and Cobleskill. He always went above and beyond in his career and even participated in a foreign exchange teaching program in Brazil. Although he thoroughly enjoyed teaching, the most important thing in his life was his family. He was heavily immersed in his only grandson Tyler’s life. He enjoyed attending every single one of his sporting events for both soccer and basketball and was always seen smiling and cheering him on. He was known as “Poppy” to many due to his caring and nurturing demeanor. Sunday family dinners, watching the Yankees, talking about his profession and helping others were some of his favorite things. “Home is where your family is, wherever you are, it’s about the people you’re surrounded by.” He lived by this mantra and was always content just having his family together. He was known to be quiet at times, but was always an observer and listener. His smile, calming and kind demeanor always made everyone around him feel seen, safe and loved.

Gordon is survived by his wife Yvonne, daughters Lisa Simpson of Albany and

Sharon Fronte-Ellithorpe of Albany, husband Dana Ellithorpe, grandson Tyler Fronte and wife Katie Fronte. He is also survived by his sister, Debbie Downey, husband Matt Downey, niece Laura Danz, husband Tanner Danz and nephew Peter Downey, wife Ally Downey. Last and not least, his grand puppies Bailey, Lucy, and Chloe.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00pm Sunday, February 4, 2024 at Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave. Delmar.  The family will receive visitors at the funeral home Sunday, 2:00 to 4:00pm before the service.  Interment in Greenville Cemetery will be in the Spring. 

In lieu of flowers donations in Gordon’s memory, and in honor of his love for dogs, may be made to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave. Albany, NY 12204.