We were stunned and saddened along with the rest of the community earlier this week when we learned of the sudden passing of Howard Simpson.

His history of dedicated service to this county is one that commands respect, and we wish to communicate that respect in this space.

Simpson’s wife of 42 years, Joan, noted that he served on the Prince Edward County Board of Supervisors for 27 years. Even as he passed away Tuesday at the age of 79, he was in the midst of a term as the Farmville 101 District Supervisor.

“There’s never been anybody on the board of supervisors, I think, that loved it like he did,” Joan said. “That was his first life. Of course, his family was first, but I mean that was his love, he loved helping people and trying to get things done for the county.”

She pointed out that his service to the community could also be found in other roles as well. It started with the Prince Edward County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as junior deputy, deputy, jailor and later as sheriff from 1974-75.

Simpson was characterized by his desire to help others, something highlighted by his wife, friends and coworkers.

William G. “Buckie” Fore, a friend of Simpson’s and previous Prince Edward County Board of Supervisors chairman, said Simpson’s love for the county was followed by his love for county employees.

Each of Simpson’s fellow supervisors currently serving on the board expressed sadness over his passing.

Leigh District Supervisor Jerry Townsend described him as a man of wisdom, and we echo his invocation delivered at the board meeting Tuesday.

“Lord, we ask you to be with the bereaved family, pick them up where they’re torn down,” Townsend said.

And it is our hope that his family feels the support of a community grateful for his dedicated service.