Elizabeth “Patty” Simpson, 72, of Newport, passed peacefully from this life on November 1, 2025. She was born on December 1, 1952, in McCrory, Arkansas, to Hershel and Loretta (Kennedy) Long.
Patty was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend whose love for her family and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her. She had a heart full of kindness, always putting others before herself, and was happiest when surrounded by her loved ones. Her home was a place of laughter, comfort, and unconditional love — where family gathered and memories were made.
She had a lifelong love for horses and found great joy and peace in riding. Her appreciation for nature extended to her love of hummingbirds, whose beauty and grace she cherished. Those small, vibrant visitors seemed to mirror Patty’s own spirit — full of light, warmth, and quiet strength.
Patty was preceded in death by her parents, Hershel and Loretta Long; her brothers, Billy “Sonny” Long and Bobby Long; and her sisters, Ann Robertson and Jean Asburn.
She is survived by her husband and best friend, Rick Simpson of the home; her son, Bryan Long (Robyn) of Bald Knob; her daughter, Michelle Brown of Newport; her brother, Roger Long (Tammy) of Maine; her grandchildren, Logan Morris of Newport, Landon Morris of Newport, and Breanna Long Cater of Bald Knob; and her great-grandchildren, Braiden Cortez Morris of Newport, Brandon Morris of Newport, Kilye Morris of Jonesboro, Brody Cater of Bald Knob, and Colt Cater of Bald Knob.
Patty’s love, kindness, and laughter will remain in the hearts of all who knew her — a lasting reminder of a life beautifully lived and deeply loved.
