Ellen Joan Simpkins, age 89of Vandalia passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 18, 2023. She was born on March 26, 1933 in Dayton, Ohio the daughter of Ralph & Lorene (Thornton) Ertel. She was a 1953 graduate of Northridge High School. She worked at all 3 Vandalia Elementary schools as a teacher's aide and member of the Safety Patrol over her 30 year career.

She is survived by her daughter Carla Reaver of Vandalia and her son Craig Simpkins of Brookville; grandchildren Zach Simpkins, Ashley Simpkins-Perkins, Brandon (Bethany) Reaver, Kory (Stephaine) Morland and Bryan (Kelly) Reaver; 14 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 53 years Carl Simpkins in 2006; her youngest daughter Cheri Simpkins-Thompson; 1 brother and 3 sisters. She was a loving, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 23, 2023 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at the ZERKLE FUNERAL HOME, 11900 N. Dixie Dr., Tipp City. A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 1:00 pm at the funeral home with Rev. Chris Cramer officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Memorial Gardens, Tipp City. Condolences may be sent to the family through this online guestbook.