Brenda Simpson, 73

Brenda Gayle Simpson (Stafford)

June 11, 1951 — May 3, 2025

Brenda Gayle Simpson, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully at 7:40 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2025, in her home in beautiful Kingston, Idaho, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 73 years old.

Born on June 11, 1951, in Leveland, Texas, Brenda was the heart of her family — the glue that held everyone together with her unwavering love, warmth and generosity. She lived a life defined by compassion, laughter and selflessness. Brenda was known for her fierce love of her family, her Boston terriers (Dozer, Finn and Oakley), a good cup of coffee, a lively game of Spades, the delicate beauty of hummingbirds and the fragrance of blooming lilacs and peonies.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Trallas “Bud” Simpson, and her two sons, Ian Simpson (with wife Mindy) and Ryan Simpson (with wife Kristin), who both inherited her strength, kindness, and sense of humor. Her daughters-in-law were more than in-laws — she loved them like family.

Brenda was a proud and loving grandmother to four granddaughters: Kendra, Avery, Addison and Shayla. Her heart was full with the joy of her great-grandson, Grady Ryan. She is also survived by her beloved siblings, Marlinda Leeper and Kevin Stafford.

She now rests in eternal peace with her loving parents, Hazel and L.T. Stafford, and her cherished older brother, Joel Stafford, who welcomed her with open arms.

Brenda had a heart big enough for everyone she met and a special place in it reserved for her family. She gave freely, loved deeply and lived fully. Her warmth, laughter and wisdom will be missed beyond measure by the many friends and loved ones whose lives she touched.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held at a later date, to be determined. Family and friends will be invited to gather in her honor, share memories and find comfort in the love she gave so freely.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to hug your loved ones, enjoy a cup of coffee and maybe plant a lilac bush or peony in her memory — just as she would have wanted.