Michael Anthony Sumpson, 64, of Douglas, peacefully departed this life Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Pinewood Manor Nursing Home, after an extended illness.
Born in Blackshear, he was the seventh of nine children born to the late Troy Lee Simpson and Ellen Simpson. From an young age he was affectionately given the nicknames “Slick Mick” and “Oinky Oink,” names that followed him throughout his life and reflected his charismatic personality and ability to bring joy wherever he went.
He attended the Pierce County Public School System, where he formed lifelong friendships and nurtured the work ethic that carried him through his adult years. As a young man, he met and married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Reid, and together they built a loving home filled with laughter, family, and faith. Their bond remained a source of strength and devotion until her passing.
A hardworking and skilled man, he was employed as a licensed plumber before working for Ace Pole for several years and then joining Douglas Asphalt, where he dedicated nearly 30 years of service. Known for his dependability and strong work ethic, he earned the respect of his coworkers and community alike.
Outside of work, he embraced life with a quiet passion. He was an avid fisherman, a talented pool player and a loyal sports fan. Above all, he enjoyed the simple pleasure of spending time with his family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn Reid Simpson; his parents, Troy and Ellen Simpson; four brothers, Rassy Johnson, Donald Johnson, Eddie Simpson and Kenneth Simpson and one sister, Diane Harris.
He leaves to cherish his everlasting memory: one son, Hakeem Fedrick, Blackshear; one daughter, Alexis Padgett, Waycross; two precious grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life; three brothers: Terry (Tricie) Simpson, Waycross, Roy Gene (Annie) Deering, Palatka, FL and Eric Freeman of Oklahoma and sisters, Linda (Alton) Tuttle and Wanda Felton, both of Blackshear; a host of loving aunts—Willie Mae Jones, Waycross, Betty Williams and Mary Johnson, Jacksonville, FL and Dorothy Taylor, Broxton; uncles, Andrew (Edna) Johnson, Jacksonville, FL, and Joseph Johnson, Broxton; a devoted friend, Jan Ward and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and special friends.
His presence, humor, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday, December 3 with visitation from noon-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Bethel Temple First Born Church, 209 Burroughs Street, Blackshear.
A celebration of life service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, from the Bethel Temple Church.
Interment will follow in the Shiloh Cemetery, 3634 Moore Street, Blackshear.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.raingememorialchapelinc.com
Rainge Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.
