Mr. Thomas Jurnal “Tommy” Simpkins, age 84, a resident of Dixon Rd., Chocowinity, NC died Monday June 17, 2013 at River Trace Nursing Center of Washington, NC.

A graveside funeral service with full military honors will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday June 19, 2013 at the Dixon Family Cemetery of Chocowinity officiated by Rev. Owen Arthur. The family will receive friends 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday June 18, 2013 at Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington and other times at the home of his daughter, Debra Edwards located at 1402 Dixon Rd., Chocowinity, NC.

Mr. Tommy was born in Beaufort County on April 3, 1929 the son of the late Dora Simpkins. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.  While in Korea he was captured and for eighteen months was held as a prisoner of war, coming very close to giving the ultimate sacrifice for his country. He married the former Mattie Pearl Dixon who preceded him in death on November 8, 1990. Following his military career Mr. Tommy worked at Leggett’s Red & White and Smith’s Food Pride as a butcher.

Survivors include two daughters: Debra S. Edwards and Kathy Sue Simpkins both of Chocowinity; a grandson: Timothy Ray Chandler and his wife Wendy of Washington and Mr. Tommy’s dog and faithful friend: Alley, who loved riding with him in his Mustang.

Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com.

Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve Mr. Tommy’s family.