Kenneth Wayne Simpson

Kenneth Wayne Simpson, 80, passed away on July 7, 2026, in Arlington, Texas. He was born on August 21, 1945, in Waco, Texas, to Frank and Gladys Simpson.

He graduated from Waco High School in 1963 and attended Sam Houston State University. Kenny moved to Dallas to start working at Vought Aircraft, but soon moved to Arlington, Texas. He retired from Northrup Grumman after 33 years as an airplane parts buyer.

Kenny married Barbara Maples on June 21, 1984, in Decatur, Texas. Their unique, wonderful, exciting marriage lasted over 42 years. While they did not have children, Kenny adored his “dog daughters”, Pepper and Duchess.

Kenny and Barbara loved to travel, and created great memories on cruises, visits to the Cayman Islands, and trips to Las Vegas. They enjoyed travelling all over the United States for NASCAR races and spent more than 20 years at Texas Motor Speedway.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Ann (Maples) Simpson; sister in law, Trumanell Maples of Decatur, Texas; brother in law, Mike Jackson of Waco, Texas; niece, Kristen Curbo and her children, Tyler, Jackson, and Kenzie of College Station, Texas, and Allison (Matt) Laird and their children, Ford and Austyn of Houston, Texas; nephew, James (Tara) Maples, and their children, Weston, Eli, and Slate of Grapevine, Texas.

Kenny is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marilyn Jackson.

The family wishes to extend a special word of gratitude to Gracie Kanyike, the amazing CNA, who shared her compassion, faith, and strength with Barbara and Kenny in his final days.

“My Kenny” is in heaven now – pain free and walking again.

There are no services scheduled at this time.