James Simpson Obituary

James Dunbar Simpson, Jr. Charleston - James Dunbar Simpson, Jr. was born on July 1, 1934 in Fairfield County, South Carolina. He is preceded in death by his father, James Dunbar Simpson and his mother, Margaret Shirley Simpson. He attended schools in Blackstock, SC, where he played basketball. He graduated from Erskine College in 1957, where he played baseball. He received his Master's Degree from the Citadel in Secondary Administration. He taught and coached at Jenkinsville High School in Fairfield County, SC. He then became principal at Macedonia High School in Berkeley County SC, where he also taught and coached. He spent the next 24 years at Garrett High School in North Charleston, where he was the athletic director, teacher, basketball coach, and JV football coach. While at Garrett, he achieved great success as the varsity basketball coach winning the state championships in 1971 and 1973. He had a 52 home game winning streak. He was the AAA Coach of the Year in South Carolina in 1971 and 1973. Also, he was the conference coach of the year 8 times during his time at Garrett. He won numerous conference championships and also served as the coach for the South all-star game. During his time at Garrett, he was dedicated to his profession and the students and players. He spent his life doing what he loved, coaching and being a role model for the many players that graced the court and field at Garrett. After leaving Garrett, he became the Athletic Director for the Charleston County School District for 8 years and finally retired after 38 years in the South Carolina school system. He loved to fish and after retirement, coached his grandson, Will, in soccer for many years. He is survived by his wife, Lucille Brandon Simpson of 63 years, a daughter, Cindy Peppler of Charleston, and a son, Jimmy Simpson (Jan) of St. George, and a grandson, William Bostick of Charleston. He is also survived by his sister, Eva Williamson (Robert) of Clemson and several cousins and many nieces and nephews. He had two step-grandchildren, Ernie Knight (Lu Ann) and Daniel Knight, and four step- great-grandchildren, Ernie Nick, Wesley Logan, Emma, and Miley all from St. George. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston