Jay Whitney Simson

Jay Whitney Simson died on June 16, 2025. He was born in Oneida, New York to Edward Lee and Ina Mae (Teeman) Simson on November 8, 1953. Both parents predeceased him. He attended SUNY in Morrisville, New York receiving an Associate's Degree in journalism. He worked for several local newspapers as a reporter and photographer. He married Sherry Smith in 1981, who predeceased him. In 1989, he married Bonita Terry, who survives.

Jay had four children: Stephanie Jean (Matt) Jeffrey, Crystal Mae (Stephan) Oechsley, Terry Lynn Simson and Nathanael Jay (Jolynn) Simson, who survive together with Grandchildren: Alex, Ayden and Ayanna Jeffrey; Kensley and Arnold Marlin Oechsley; and Owen and Ivy Simson.

Jay is also survived by siblings: Meredith Croucher, Miriam Louk, Fred Simson and Charles Simson.

Brothers John, Edward "Boone" and Clark Simson predeceased him.

In later years, he published three books on military history. He became a lecturer and spoke to Civil War roundtables across the country.

Per the family, there will be no funeral.

Preferred memorials are to the Van Wert Civic Theatre, 118 South Race Street, Van Wert, Ohio 45891 or First United Methodist Church, 113 West Central Street, Van Wert, Ohio 45891.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.