Earl Van, a well-loved and decorated Union County Vietnam Veteran, passed away on Tuesday, July 9th 2024. Born on July 18th, 1942, Van was a multi-generation farmer and, like many in his family, a modern-day "Noah" with his myriads of farm animals. He was especially known for his mobile petting zoo, which brought joy to many children's birthday parties with his beautiful miniature donkeys.

Van loved the Lord, his family, his country, nature, and Elvis. He was extremely charming, with a contagious smile, boundless energy, and always had a good story or joke on hand. He enjoyed discussing passages of the Bible in intricate detail and was always eager to share his thoughts and insights.

Family was Van's greatest treasure, and he made it a priority to attend every family function. He was probably going to be late, but he was always going to be there!

The family would like to extend their greatest gratitude to Atrium Main, specifically the 3rd-floor Nurses, CNAs, and all support faculty, as well as the 9th-floor ICU Nurses, CNAs, team of Doctors, and staff who cared not just for Van but for his family as well. Your steps were well guided and deeply appreciated by his loved ones.

Van will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will live on in the hearts of many.

He was preceded in death by his son Earl Van "Little Van" Simpson Jr and stepdaughter, Lisa Webb. He was also preceded in death by his parents William "Willie" Ira Simpson Sr. and Lola Delphia Deese Simpson. His siblings William Ira Simpson Jr,, Marie Simpson Walters, J.W. "Dub" Simpson, Baby girl Simpson (3 days), Janie Simpson Baucom, Monty Simpson Mills, Phillip Simpson Sr, Dean Simpson Carter.

Survivors include his stepson, Lane Richardson (Sherry); sisters; Elizabeth "Libby" Williams, Sandra Simpson Baucom; brothers: Darrell Simpson (Mary). Bruce Simpson (Linda). He is also survived by a host of precious nieces and nephews that encompassed multiple generations all the way to "triple great" which he was very proud of.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00pm on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Indian Trail, 732 Indian Trail Fairview Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079. Mr. Simpson will be laid to rest with military honors at Lakeland Memorial Park Cemetery immediately following the service.  The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 11:00am until 11:45am.

Holland Funeral Service is serving the Simpson Family.