Jan "J.P." Peter Simpson's Obituary
Jan “J.P.” Peter Simpson, age 76, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Port Charlotte, Florida. Born November 10, 1948, in Rochester, New York, J.P. spent his life marching to the beat of his own drum—usually a blues riff—and made sure others found their rhythm, too.
J.P. retired in 2017 as Director of Music at the ARC of Monroe County, where he used his immense musical gifts to bring joy and purpose to adults with developmental disabilities. But “retired” never really applied to J.P.—he was always creating. He founded the Gregory Street Blues Band, a unique group that blended talent with community, and directed numerous theatre productions including unforgettable renditions of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Little Shop of Horrors. These shows weren’t just performances—they were celebrations of inclusion, talent, and heart.
Born into a home where music and theater were second nature—thanks to his father Don’s own career as a singer and actor—J.P. grew up steeped in creativity. He inherited that legacy and passed it on in abundance. He was quick-witted, effortlessly funny, and the kind of person who could find a melody in any moment—or at least hum one until it caught on.
J.P. was a man of deep compassion, a champion for those whose voices weren’t always heard, and someone who truly believed that everyone deserves a spotlight now and then. He had a generous spirit, a mischievous sense of humor, and a love for life that was as contagious as the songs he played.
He is survived by his loving wife and partner in melody, Molly I. Phillips. He now joins his father Don Simpson, mother Marion Simpson, and sister Mary Kay Barker in what is surely the most spectacular jam session on the other side.
J.P. leaves behind a legacy not just of music, but of kindness, humor, and the kind of joy that can only come from someone who lived with an open heart—and a very full playlist.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for your support of the Intermezzo Choir, a community outreach choir of the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers supporting singers living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia. This choir allowed JP to continue his love for music, singing, and laughter.
https://ftmmastersingers.givingfuel.com/mastersingers-donation
FUND: INTERMEZZO MEMORY CHOIR
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