SIMPSON Funeral Service for Mr. Joel L. Simpson, age 55, will be held at 11AM, FRIDAY, October 21, 2005, in Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, with Dr. Rudolph W. McKissick, Sr. and Dr. Rudolph W. McKissick, Jr., Pastors, officiating. Mr. Simpson, a current resident of West Orange, NJ and former Jacksonville native and resident passed away October 16, 2005 in New Jersey. He was a graduate of New Stanton Senior High School - Class of 1969, and was a self employed General Contractor, also, employed by Episcopal Community Development as Building and Construction Manager. During his tenure in Jacksonville, Mr. Simpson was the first African American Building Inspector in the City of Jacksonville. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Shirley Simpson; children Joleta Simpson Crews, Jessica and Joel Simpson, II; a granddaughter; mother, Mrs. Beatrice Simpson; 2 brothers; 3 sisters; a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Mr. Simpson will rest in the church for visitation of friends FRIDAY from 9AM until the hour of service. Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the church under the direction of ALPHONSO WEST MORTUARY, INC., 4409 Soutel Dr. (766-9671). P lease Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com