Martha Paige Simpson, 77, of Lexington, passed away with her son Andrew by her side on Sunday, May 22, 2016 at Hinkle Hospice House in Lexington, NC. She was born on May 17, 1939 to the late Floyd and Carrie (Lackey) Shoaf in Tyro, NC.

Martha attended Women’s College at UNCG before transferring to Catawba College. She worked WXII and then as a book reviewer for the Charlotte Observer. She and her husband co-authored the book, Hurricane Camille which was published in 1966. She was a publisher for Sara Lee and later worked as paralegal for Womble & Carlyle in Winston-Salem. Martha enjoyed reading, birdwatching, and going to the beach. She was also a good cook, enjoyed her cat and was a volunteer with hospice of Davidson County.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by two brothers, Gene Shoaf, and Richard Shoaf; and a sister, Patricia Shoaf.

Martha is survived by her son, Andrew Simpson of Lexington, NC; a step-daughter, Ellen Janpole, and husband Dan; a brother Fred Simpson and wife Yurkere; a cousin, Stan Shoaf and wife Robin and their daughter Kristi of Winston-Salem; a brother-in-law, Pat Shoaf of Reids, NC. And last but not least, her Main Coon cat.. Cheeky.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at Tyro United Methodist Church. 4484 NC-150, Lexington, NC.

Carolina Cremation of Salisbury is serving the Simpson family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.