Mary Lou Simpson

November 16, 2018
Mary Lou Simpson

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Mary Lou Simpson, age 65 of Williamsburg, passed away on Friday, November 16, 2018. She was born January 17, 1953, in Boston, Massachusetts to Mary Lou Curkin and the late Carlos Oliveira, and later lovingly raised by Mary Lou and the late Clifford M. Curkin of Middletown, Connecticut.

Mary Lou attended Bacon Academy High School in Colchester, Connecticut, where she was a star athlete and standout student, becoming class valedictorian upon graduation. In 1972, Mary Lou married the love of her life, Donald C. Simpson, and in 1974 while living in Rhode Island, had a daughter, Jennifer (Culhane). They later moved back to Connecticut and then settled in Williamsburg, Virginia where they’d enjoyed vacationing.

Mary Lou managed, and later became owner of, the beautiful furniture and gift store, Lightfoot Manor Shoppe. She poured her soul into the store for almost 40 years, during which customers from all over the country loved to visit over and again on their trips to the area.

While the store was a labor of love, Mary Lou’s true passion was spending time with family and friends, with whom she frequented Busch Gardens (where she especially loved the shows), Colonial Williamsburg, movies, art shows, and enjoyed shopping for pretty things, mainly to be given to others. A talented artist, she also enjoyed writing poetry, drawing, painting, making jewelry, engraving and adding her special touch to everything she could. Her strong faith as a Jehovah’s Witness helped her to continue and find joy on her journey in life, especially in living with her chronic health challenges.

Mary Lou is survived by her mother Mary Lou Curkin, aunt Antoinette Merlino and other aunts and uncles; husband Donald Simpson; daughter Jennifer (Glen) Culhane of Richmond; sisters Tanya Arruda (Carlos) and Marinela (Jimmy) Fula; brother Carlos (Gabriela) Oliveira; special sister-in-law Patrice Simpson and a number of other loving relatives and close friends.

A visitation will be held at Bucktrout Funeral Home in Williamsburg on Monday, Nov. 26 from 6-8 p.m.


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  • November 20, 2018
    Mallory M. says:
    Jen, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. You inherited your mom's positivity, strength and courage! I know you will keep that spirit going!

  • November 21, 2018
    Patrice Simpson says:
    What a great example of a dear beautiful courageous woman who embraced life and all those who were privileged to be part of hers. She so valiantly fought her illnesses and always was caring about other family and friends. She was so cherished and beloved. My love, thoughts and prayers are with you Don, Jen and Glen. You’re all carrying on her legacy. From Patsy who loved her dearly.

  • November 21, 2018
    Carla M Noble says:
    So sorry for your loss, Marylou was such a pleasant and thoughtful person who will be missed by all. We were so happy to have met her and spend time with her most memorable was when she was in Boston and we went to Fenway park behind the scenes as the park was being prepared for the World Series.

  • November 22, 2018
    Richard Clark says:
    We are all praying for the family and are saddened to hear of marylous passing.May she be watched over and welcomed with open arms going forward.

  • November 22, 2018
    Marcia says:
    I loved reading about Mrs. Mary Lou Simpson's life filled with love, family and great vibrancy. Jen, your mom was a special life force and I'm so sorry for her passing. Hugs to you, your dad and family. Much love to you all.