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Ruth Erelia Waterfield Simpson, 89, of Suffolk, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021, at her residence. She was born in Norfolk on Dec. 27, 1931, and was the daughter of the late Ruth Virginia Pope and William Lev Waterfield. She is also predeceased by her husband of 42 years, James Wesley Simpson; sisters, Mildred Robinson and Evelyn Johnson; and brothers, Willie, Edward, Frank and Harry Waterfield. 

For a short time, she worked at an apparel store in Norfolk and Electric Cooker in Suffolk before devoting many years to loving and caring for numerous children. She loved the Lord and faithfully served her church, Southside Baptist Church. She enjoyed working outside, going on trips with friends and reading. She loved being surrounded by children, family and friends.  

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Jeanne Simpson; granddaughter, Cheryl Simpson (Jason); great-grandchildren, John Curtis and Kelsi White; numerous nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews. Through her illness, she was supported by her special niece Karyn Waterfield; her dear friends, Jane and Randy Needham; and all of her church family. She will always be remembered as someone who touched many lives with her love. 

Ruth’s funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 27, at Southside Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Cool Spring Baptist Church Cemetery in Eure, N.C. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Southside Baptist Church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children. Post condolences on parrfuneralhome.com.