Robert Simpson

Memorial by Benny Rios DonJuan

I have known Robert Simpson since 2006 or so. Everyone called him Mr. Simpson. I came to know him when they moved me from D-house to E-house (at Stateville Correctional Center.) He mostly stood in the cell all day with the exception of going to chow, so I didn't have the opportunity to hang out with him. For the most part, he kept to himself and stood out of trouble.

When I moved to E-house, I was a cellhouse worker assigned to the gallery that Mr. Simpson resided on. This gave me the opportunity to interact with him and my interactions with him were always pleasant. He always greeted me with a smile and even though he was a man of a few words, he always managed to make me smile with what he said.

For someone who kept to himself most of the time, he still managed to make my day better. He may have never realized it, but those little interactions that we shared made my life in prison easier for me. For that and many other reasons, Mr. Simpson, should never be forgotten. It was a blessing to have known him and I hope and pray that he will always be remembered. Rest In Peace My Brother!