Larry L. Simpson, 81, of Beloit, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

Larry was born in Beloit to Loren J. and Leola (Streich) Simpson, and remained a proud son of the community throughout his life. After graduating from Beloit Memorial High School, Class of 1962, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an Aviation Storekeeper Third Class (AK3).

Following his service, Larry was a long-time manager—and then owner—of Cox’s Garden Center (later known as Simpson’s Cox’s Garden Center). He worked at General Motors in Janesville from 1995 until its closure in 2008. His "retirement job" was caring for plants and people with the Downtown Beloit Association.

Larry’s commitment to service extended far beyond his work. He was deeply engaged in civic, church, and volunteer life, serving on the Beloit City Council and the Beloit School Board, as well as the boards of the Downtown Beloit Association, the Northeast Business Association, and the Beloit Brewers/Snappers. He enjoyed the close friendships of the “Sunset Bunch”.

Faith was also central to Larry’s life. He served the congregation at Messiah Lutheran Church in Beloit and later at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Roscoe, Illinois.

Larry gave generously of his time to countless community activities, including Cub Scouts, youth baseball and softball, local schools, Beloit River Fest, the Rotary Grand Prix, United Way Small Business Campaigns, BMHS Class of 1962 reunions, Beloit Men’s Bowling League, Church Softball, and Dartball.

Above all, Larry was devoted to his family. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Sherry (Dautermann) Simpson, and together they built a family rooted in love, faith, and service. He is survived by his sons, Scot (Rachel) Simpson of River Falls, WI, and Nicholas Simpson of Beloit; and by his cherished grandchildren, Madeline, Ben, Sam, and Alex.

Larry was the oldest of six children and is survived by his siblings: Doug (Bobbie) Simpson, Sue (Jerry) Smith, Holly (John) Sharer, Marcy (John) Bennett, and Mark (Penny) Simpson. He is also survived by in-laws Kim (Brenda) Dautermann, Jill (Richard) McEntire, and Heidi (Don) Newland, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, and his brother-in-law, Robert Dautermann Jr.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Brian Mark Funeral Home on Inman Parkway. Funeral services will take place on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.; an additional visitation will take place at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at Messiah Lutheran Church. Interment at Luther Valley Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the many caretakers of Beloit Regional Hospice, as well as to the countless friends, family, and acquaintances who offered care, comfort, and assistance during Larry’s final months.

Larry believed in service to his God, his family, and his community—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Beloit Regional Hospice, or given in money or time to a cause of your choosing to honor Larry’s volunteer spirit.