Obituary of Rowena E. Simpson
Rowena Elizabeth Simpson, affectionately known as Rio, passed away at home on July 19, 2024, in her hometown of Morristown, NJ. Born to W. Laurence and Elizabeth Hendrickson on September 8, 1943, in Morristown, she was a beacon of light and warmth in the community she dearly loved.
While working at All Souls’ Hospital, Rowena met the love of her life. In 1966, she married her beloved Stanley O. Simpson marking the beginning of a shared life for 57 years filled with love, laughter, and devotion.
The eldest of 10 sisters and brothers, Rio was the matriarch of the Hendrickson family as well as the extended Harris family. She enjoyed planning family reunions, Kwanzaa and Juneteenth celebrations, and attending family gatherings.
Rowena's love extended to her and Stanley’s three children, Shonda, Christina, and Xaviera; as well as their two grandchildren, Xavier and Alani. Fond memories of her love of cooking and new recipes, sewing, quilting, and listening to poetry by Nikki Giovanni.
A graduate of Morristown High School in 1943, Rowena went on to enhance her passion for literature at The Learning Resource Center Reference Desk of Essex County College for 7 years. She then transitioned to a corporate environment and retired from Dun & Bradstreet after 21 years.
Rowena is predeceased by her beloved husband; parents, Top Cat and Princess; her sister, Michelle; and her favorite Uncle T. May she join them in the sweetest peace.
In addition to her children, grandchildren and extended family, Rowena leaves to cherish her memory: sister, Agatha Sawyer, nephew Marlowe Simpson, and goddaughter Andrea Wilson.
Private services were held laying Rowena to rest on her youngest daughter’s birthday, July 23, 2024.
As Rio would say at the end of any conversation, “Peace”.
Arrangements were entrusted to Dangler Funeral Home, Morris Plains, NJ.