David Simpson, Sr

David “Bootsy” Simpson Sr.

David was born August 10, 1947 in Palmetto, FL. He was the third child born to the late Johnny Simpson Sr. and Frances Early Simpson.

David accepted Christ at an early age and attended the family church, Turner Chapel AME.

David affectionately known as “Bootsy” attended Lincoln Memorial Elementary and was a 1965 graduate of Lincoln Memorial High School. While attending Lincoln Memorial High, Bootsy played drums in the band and was an integral part in the creation and success of the Trojans newly formed baseball program.

After high school, Bootsy served his country as a member of the United States Army in the field artillery unit with the 1st Infantry Division better known as” The BIG RED 1” during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1969

On May 14,1971 he was joined in Holy Matrimony to Sherrye Presha and to this union one son was born. 

Remaining strong in his faith, as young adult, David joined St. John M.B. Church -Memphis and served faithfully as member and Trustee until his passing. 

David was principal partner in Simpson and Simpson Trucking and Tractor. Many houses in Manatee County, from Palma Sola, Terra Ceia, Snead Island, Washington Park and many others are built on plats leveled and graded by D. Simpson. 

David was a member of the 9 Devils of the Negro Baseball League, played softball on 2 teams @G.T.Bray Park: Dave English &Johnson Homes.

Coach Simpson’s competitiveness and desire to win was something that he passed on to the young athletes that he coached in both Football and Baseball.  Instilling a work ethic that was inclusive of integrity, commitment, compassion, teamwork, grinding and perseverance. The lesson was “we don’t always win, but we never quit and that we can win if we put in the work.” Coach Simpson was a longtime member of the Manatee County Broncos and East Bradenton Little League coaching both the PINTOS and L and H Construction.

As an employee of Manatee County, Mr. Simpson was recognized as both MCAT Driver and MC Employee of the Year in the same year. He retired in September of 2019 after more than 20 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his son Eric B. Simpson,6 siblings;Mary Simpson Strong, Johnnie Mae Simpson-McPherson, LillieB. Simpson-Yarn, Johnny Simpson Jr., James “Sporty” Simpson,and Leon “Lee Lee” Simpson.

He leaves to cherish lasting memories: A loving and devoted wife Sherrye Simpson; daughters Burgaphy “Winnie” Simpsonand Stephanie Simpson; sons David Simpson Jr. and Keith (Sheila) Simpson.  Daughter in law Faye Simpson of Ft. Lauderdale, FL. 14 Grandkids and 10 Great Grands.  

Two sisters Rosemary S.Mosely of Palmetto,fl. and Carolyn S.Moore of Newark, New Jersey. Six sister in laws Carolyn Thomas, Mildred Duncan, and Lillie Jean of Bradenton, Fl. Matilda Simpson and Patricia Simpson of Palmetto, Fl. and Loretta Lipp of New Jersey. Two Brother in laws Walter “Mickey “Presha and Billy Richardson of Palmetto, Fl.  A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends.

Special Friends: Stanley “Fats” Washington, Elmore Brinson, and James Hamilton.

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