Edward Jack “Ted” Simpson

Edward Jack “Ted” Simpson passed away on January 2, 2026, after a hard-fought battle against a rare and aggressive form of cancer. He was surrounded by love and leaves behind a legacy that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Ted was the beloved husband of Alta Kelly Simpson, his partner in life and love. Together, Ted and Kelly built a family grounded in faith, hard work, and unconditional love. He was a proud father to Jordan Reaves; Kassi (Reaves) Provost and her husband, Andrew J. Provost; Ryan Simpson and his fiancée, Molly Spark; and Mackenzie Simpson and his girlfriend, Abbigail Bunn - each of whom carries forward his strength, values, and generous spirit.

To his grandchildren - Julian, Jace, and Lily Provost - Ted was not just a grandfather, but a silly, fun-loving Pappy, whose laughter, jokes, and boundless affection filled every moment. He adored his grandchildren and dreamed of spending his retirement days alongside them. One of his biggest dreams was to retire and open his own hot dog truck - with his grandbabies right by his side.

Ted was also a beloved brother to his sister, Evelyn Simpson Stanley, and a cherished brother-in-law to her husband, Eddie Stanley, who was not only family by marriage but a true brother by heart. Their bond was built on love, loyalty, and a lifetime of shared moments.

Ted was also deeply blessed by the love of his mother-in-law, Martha Lee Reaves, known to many as Granny. She was not just family by marriage, but a loving mother to Ted, and he loved her as his own mom. No matter the distance between them, Ted always made sure Granny was taken care of - just as she always made sure he was loved. Their bond was one of mutual devotion, respect, and unconditional love.

Ted’s heart was big enough to hold all of his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews - far too many to name, yet each one deeply loved. Every one of them held a special place in Ted’s heart. He cared for them fiercely and showed his love through his actions, his laughter, and his unwavering presence whenever they were in need.

Ted was a lineman - through and through. His work was not just a job; it was his passion, his purpose, and his pride. He dedicated his life to keeping the lights on for others, no matter what the conditions. He worked long days and longer nights, through hurricanes, snowstorms, and exhaustion, always answering the call. If your power ever came back on during the worst of weather, there’s a good chance Ted was the one who made it happen.

Throughout his career, Ted worked for Pike Electric, later with Carteret-Craven, then at Foreman Electric in Puerto Rico - helping people there after a devastating hurricane. It was never about money. He continued his work with Rockstad and Faith Electric, earning respect everywhere he went for his unmatched work ethic, leadership, and integrity. Even after the hardest days, he came home tired but smiling, always ready with a silly joke and a warm heart. To Ted, his work was never just a paycheck - it was his honor and duty.

Ted was a man built on morals, respect, integrity, and unwavering faith. A devoted follower of Jesus, he lived his faith through action - giving freely, loving deeply, and serving others without hesitation. He would give the shirt off his back, his last dollar, or his time to anyone in need. He never bought for himself - he gave to others. His family always came first.

While Ted was deeply loved by his family, he was also cherished by friends and coworkers. Along the way, many of those friendships became family. He shared an unbreakable brotherhood with fellow linemen, including Big Steve Garris, Pascal Desbien, Teddy Gonzalez, and so many others who stood beside him on poles, in storms, and through life. Those bonds were strong, loyal, and lasting - just like Ted.

He was the definition of a patriarch - a leader, provider, protector, and giver. Ted worked through pain, illness, and hardship without complaint because providing for those he loved brought him joy. Nothing could stop him from doing what he loved - until his body finally asked him to rest.

For the first time in his life, Ted could no longer do what he loved most - working, providing, giving, laughing, and being fully present with the people he cherished. Kelly stepped away from work to remain faithfully by his side, just as she always has been.

Ted Simpson was a walking angel. If you were fortunate enough to meet him, you already know that truth. Today, we find comfort in knowing that Ted is climbing the biggest pole in heaven, doing what he loved most, keeping the lights on above, and watching over all who loved him.

Though his absence leaves an ache that words cannot fully express, his legacy is one of service, faith, generosity, and love without limits. Ted’s light will never fade - it lives on in every life he touched.

A memorial service honoring Ted’s life will be held at Munden Funeral Home, located at 2112 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC 28557, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Ted’s life, share memories, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

Guests are welcome to dress in casual attire, with the family requesting clothing that is comfortable yet respectful, in keeping with Ted’s spirit.

An additional memorial service and gathering will take place in Bishop, California, at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ted’s memory to the Carteret County Humane Society.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.