Wendy Jo Simpson, 52, of Mount Dora, FL, passed away in October of 2024. Born in May of 1972 in Hartford, CT, Wendy was known for being kind, funny, generous, smart, and caring. She dedicated her life to education, shaping young minds at Southwest Junior High School, Umatilla High School, and Mount Dora High School. After leaving teaching, Wendy volunteered in MDHS's AVID program, and was an ardent advocate for her students.
Wendy graduated from Dunedin High School and later earned bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Florida, where she met her husband, James.
Her first priority was her sons, Rob and Kirk. She also loved volunteering in the community, Gator football, singing, reading, and traveling. Wendy was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora.
She leaves behind her loving husband, her two sons, and her mother, Linda Paananen. Wendy was preceded in death by her father, Tom Paananen.
A service to celebrate Wendy's life will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora on Monday, October 28, at 4:00 p.m. A reception will follow at the Mount Dora Yacht Club. A memory board will be at the reception where people may post words or memories they would like to share.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Paananen and Simpson Literacy Endowment via the Mount Dora Community Trust, honoring Wendy's commitment to literacy and education. To give, visit mountdoracommunitytrust.com. Donations may also be mailed or dropped off at their office at 821 North Donnelly Street, Mount Dora, FL 32757. Checks should be made out to the Paananen & Simpson Literacy Endowment with "Wendy Simpson" in the memo line.