Rick Simpson

Dr. Ricky Jerel Simpson, an Oklahoman of McKinney, TX, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the age of 73. Despite his sudden and unexpected departure, his family was present to hold his hands as he entered the Kingdom of Heaven. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, physician, and die-hard OU fan, anyone who met Rick knew he was one of a kind. But life was never about him; he was singularly focused on those around him.

Rick was born November 8, 1952 in Oklahoma City, the second child to JD and Jackie. Precocious and playful as a kid, he enjoyed pulling pranks and creating mischief. Yet education was always paramount for the Simpson family. And Rick always had a bright mind. He graduated from Classen High School in 1970 and attended the University of Oklahoma for two years before his close friends encouraged him to transfer to Vanderbilt University, where he graduated in 1974. On a whim at the suggestion of his mother (she had lots of whims), Rick took the MCAT and four years later graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Through the guidance of a wise mentor, Rick chose to specialize in anesthesiology.

Medicine came naturally to Rick because of his exemplary intellect and work ethic—but he excelled because of his unmatched bedside manner. Rick gave practical guidance in plain English that allowed patients from all walks of life to feel confidence heading into any procedure. Those who were lucky enough to be in his care over the course of four decades in Edmond (and a few years in North Texas) were treated by a real-life Patch Adams, a doctor who was just as likely to share a silly drawing or a wise word as he was to provide board-certified care. Rick was known to turn kids’ anesthesia masks into animals or superheroes, play pranks on coworkers, and personally follow up with patients after surgery. Patients who knew him outside of medicine often woke up with his hallmark “Sharpie tattoo” on their arms.

Important as his career was, it did not define him. Faith and family were the anchors of Rick’s life. His move to Texas in the waning years of his practice freed him to broaden his Catholic faith and connect with other men in biblical fellowship. Nothing delighted him more than telling stories to his six grandchildren and teaching them the Simpson family values. Rick used his artistic talents to uplift those around him, creating thousands of doodles, cartoons, and cards for family, friends, and strangers.

His legacy continues through his loving wife of 48 years, Stephanie (Wuller) Simpson; son, Tyler Simpson, and wife, Kendal (Van Wagner) Simpson; daughter, Bailey (Simpson) Guthrie, and husband, Andrew Guthrie; brother, J. Dee Simpson; sister, Cindy Knox; and six grandchildren, McLean Catherine Simpson (14), Ainsley Joanne Simpson (13), Hattie Claire Simpson (12), Wyatt Don Guthrie (9), Jefferson Grady Simpson (7), and Ruthie Jane “RJ” Guthrie (6). His parents JD and Gloria “Jackie” Simpson and their infant daughter Judee were there to welcome him to their heavenly front porch.

Rick deepened his Christian faith working with the Santisimo Sacramento Parish in Piura, Peru through multiple medical missions. In lieu of flowers, you can direct online donations to www.peruvianmissionfund.org/donate or mail a check to St. Joseph Peruvian Mission Fund, PO Box 6693, Edmond, OK 73083. In both cases, please indicate “In Memory of Rick Simpson” in the memo line.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 900 S. Littler, Edmond, OK, on May 15, 2026, at 10:00 am.