Odell Darius Simpson, of Rockford departed this earthly life December 30, 2024. He was born September 9, 1932 in Rosston, Arkansas the son of Lucain and Birda Simpson. Odell lived in Rockford since 1951 coming from Rosston, Arkansas. He was employed as a supervisor of maintenance by the City of Rockford 33 years before retiring in 1993. Odell married the former Bobbie Jean Robinson, July 7, 1956. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean Conflict. Odell was a member of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church since 1955, serving as on the Usher Board, as a Sunday School Teacher, as an Trustee, member of the Male Chorus, he also would clean and help keep the church maintained, and was one the organizers of the Annual Pancake Day. He was very active in the community, serving with the precinct committee and active with the Black Male Health Community Actions Team. Odell was a member of the Jefferson Horton American Legion post # 0340. He graduated from Nevada County Training School.

Odell leaves to cherish many loving many loving memories, his wife, Bobbie J. Simpson; two daughters, Tracena Simpson and LaTasha Vella; three grandsons, JaDarious Ducksworth, J'Mal Ducksworth and JaVareynn Tate; two great granddaughters, Ni'Yanee Ducksworth and Ja'Zaryee Tate; two brothers, Leon "Tucker" Simpson, Jerry (Vicky) Simpson; five sisters, Adell Rucks, Margaret Smith, Betty Simpson, Ophelia (Ariel) Worrell, and Stephanie (Ralph) Johnson; a host of nieces, nephews cousins other relatives and friends, including, his god children, Shawn Hollingshed, Monica (Randy) Smith and Marsha Allen. He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, and two sisters.

Services will be held 12:00 p.m. Monday, January 13, 2025 at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church 3000 Rural Street. Burial in Willwood Burial Park.  Visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.