MEXICO — Robert W. Simpson, 66, of Granite Street, Mexico, died Saturday, Sept. 25, at his residence, following a long illness.

He was born in Taunton, Mass. on Sept. 11, 1944, the youngest son of Louis and Alice (Haupert) Simpson, and was raised by his Aunt Dot and Aunt Elsie, in Taunton.

He married Gloria Francis on July 27, 1974, and together they celebrated 36 years of marriage. Bob adopted two of Gloria’s sons and raised them as his own.

He loved traveling, and took trips to Florida, Missouri, Nashville, Pigeon Forge, and the Grand Canyon. Bob loved listening to music and riding his motorcycle. While riding his bike, he felt that he was free.

Bob loved his family, especially his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “The Gum Man.” His favorite time of year was Christmas. The family recalls that he had a sense of humor like no other and was a hard worker, working 60 to 80 hours a week trying to provide for his family.

He became ill at the age of 44, and lost his sight at 62. He was always in pain, but never complained. Bob was an inspiration to his family and had a good life with his wife and children. He considered himself luckier than most.

Surviving are his wife of 36 years, Gloria A. Simpson; seven children, Michael J. Simpson and wife, Susie, of Johnston, R.I., Michael W. Simpson of Mexico, David Simpson of Johnston, R.I., Scott Simpson and wife, Anne, of Johnston, R.I., Anthony Simpson and wife, Mary Lin, of Sanford, Robert Simpson of Providence, R.I., and Paul Francis and wife, Tammy, of Mexico; a sister, Ruth Gauthier of Ocala, Fla.; a brother, Louis Simpson of Hartfield, Conn.; two aunts, Dot Rose and Elsie Simpson, both of Taunton, Mass.; 17 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents.

You are invited to share your, thoughts, condolences, and fond memories with the Simpson family by visiting their guestbook at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.