Richard Allan Simpson III (Ricky), age 47, passed away unexpectedly on June 6, 2025, at his home in Melbourne, Florida. Born on May 28, 1978, in Hollywood, Florida, Ricky was a proud disabled veteran of the Navy for 27 years. He graduated from Cooper City High School in Cooper City, Florida, and went on to join the Navy in honor of his grandfather. One of his greatest personal accomplishments was purchasing his home, where he lived for 23 years.

Ricky found peace in nature, he loved fishing, camping, laughing, and spending time outdoors. He was a great fisherman and truly enjoyed every moment spent casting a line.

Those who knew him will remember a gentle, kindhearted soul whose quiet strength and deep compassion touched everyone he met. His kindness was unwavering and selfless; he helped others simply because it was the right thing to do. Ricky lived with empathy, and his legacy of love and gentleness will carry on.

He was a loving son, a caring brother, and a proud uncle. We will forever cherish the warmth and kindness he brought to each of these roles. His absence leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who loved him. As we mourn the loss of our brother, son, and uncle, we also find comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his mother. Their love was strong and enduring, and we believe she was waiting for him with open arms.

He is survived by his father, Richard Allan Simpson II; his stepmother, Ann Simpson; his sister, Heather Jean Peppers, and her husband, Jack Peppers II; his nephew, Justin Fox; niece, Lillianna Jean Peppers; nephew, Jack Peppers III; and great-niece, Aleana Kinsley Fox.

Ricky was preceded in death by his mother, Susan Jean Mullins; his grandmother, Mildred Josephine Maclaren; his grandparents, Richard Allan Simpson and Dorthy Faye Simpson; and his maternal grandparents, Shirley Jean VanClief and Raymond VanClief.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the South Florida National Cemetery, located at 6501 S. State Road 7, Lake Worth, FL 33449.

Richard will be laid to rest with dignity and honor in the same national cemetery as his beloved grandfather, Richard Allan Simpson, bringing them together in peaceful rest.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Military Veteran Project. Donations in Richard Allan Simpson III’s memory can be made online at www.militaryveteranproject.org, or by mail to:

Military Veteran Project

P.O. Box 3926

Topeka, KS 66604

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.

-Revelation 21:4