Jessica Marie Simpson (née Talbert), of Granite City, Illinois, was born on October 22, 1986, to Dewane Talbert and Carol Madesen (née Foresheed). On August 27, 2026, Jessica passed away in the early morning hours at the age of 39.
Though Jessica’s time on earth was far too short, she made a lasting and profound impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. As a server at Uncle Linny’s, Jessica brought a little extra joy to people’s mornings each day, and her warmth and personality made it easy for her to form friendships with both coworkers and customers alike.
On July 8, 2023, Jessica married her great love, Michael Simpson, at Forever After in Granite City. The ceremony was officiated by Jessica’s best friend, Heather Lynch.
Affectionately described as “chaos personified,” Jessica was rarely sitting still for long. She was always working, planning, or dreaming up her family’s next big adventure. She loved trips to the lake, boating, biking, and swimming, but perhaps nothing brought her greater joy than cheering on her children at their sporting events. At home, she could often be found penny shopping, getting lost in her eclectic love of music (from country to the Backstreet Boys), or immersed in one of her many arts and crafts projects.
Jessica will be remembered most of all for the enormous heart she carried through life. She was kind and deeply forgiving, and she gave her love freely to the people around her. She was also remarkably strong and resilient, fighting fiercely for her family and the people she loved, every minute of every day.
Jessica leaves behind her parents; her loving husband, Michael Simpson; her beloved children, Madison Simpson, Raelynn Pritchard, Lucas Downs, Andrew Simpson, Kolbe Simpson, and daughter-in-law Abby; her brother, Justin Green; her nephews and niece, Logan, Carter, and Alivia; her best friend, Heather; as well as countless extended family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.
A visitation and funeral service will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with funeral services immediately following from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jessica’s honor to her family to help support her children.
