SR 7: Simpson, David S.; condolences

Senate Resolution 7EX

By: Senator Orrock of the 36th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing and commending the life and memory of David S. Simpson; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the members of the Senate are saddened to learn of the passing of David S. Simpson on April 3, 2026, a man whose intelligence, wit, courage, and unwavering dedication to community left an indelible mark upon the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, born in 1945 in the Normaltown neighborhood of Athens, Georgia, David S. Simpson was the eldest son of Dr. Hazel Deal Simpson and David S. "Dee" Simpson and exhibited from an early age the independent spirit, keen intellect, and curiosity that would define his remarkable life; and

WHEREAS, at the age of 18, he honorably served his nation in the United States Navy as a courier stationed in Washington, D.C., demonstrating his commitment to public service and civic duty before returning home to Georgia; and

WHEREAS, as a student at the University of Georgia, he became a prominent voice for student rights and civic engagement, helping shape discussions surrounding freedom of S. R. 7EX

expression, political participation, and social justice during a pivotal period in our nation's history; and

WHEREAS, throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his commitment to civil rights, grassroots organizing, voting rights, and social equity, lending his talents and leadership to organizations including Students for a Democratic Society, the Southern Student Organizing Committee, and the Southern Conference Educational Fund; and

WHEREAS, his efforts contributed to meaningful conversations and actions that sought to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and promote justice throughout Georgia and the South; and

WHEREAS, after making Atlanta his home, David S. Simpson became one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in the Little Five Points community, where he dedicated decades of service to local businesses, neighborhood organizations, public safety initiatives, cultural events, and civic life; and

WHEREAS, in 1988, together with his family, he helped establish the Coyote Trading Company, a treasured Little Five Points institution known for celebrating Native American art, craftsmanship, and culture, which continues to serve the community today as Turtle Trading Company; and

WHEREAS, affectionately known by many as "The Sheriff of Little Five Points," "The Mayor of Little Five Points," and later the self-appointed "Ambassador to Little Five Points," he played a vital role in revitalizing the Little Five Points Halloween Festival, served as Vice President of the Little Five Points Business Association, helped establish the Little Five Points Police Patrol, and worked tirelessly to strengthen the community he loved; and S. R. 7EX

WHEREAS, beyond his public accomplishments, David S. Simpson will be remembered for his generosity, loyalty, compassion, sharp wit, and extraordinary ability to bring people together in friendship, laughter, and fellowship; and

WHEREAS, although words alone cannot fully convey the profound loss felt by those who knew and loved him, the legacy of David S. Simpson will endure through the lives he touched, the causes he championed, and the community he helped build.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize and commend the life and memory of David S. Simpson and express their deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and all those who were blessed to know him. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the family of David S. Simpson.

S. R. 7EX