Doyle Lavern Simpson formerly of Blackwell, Oklahoma, died Saturday, December 8, 2012, in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Oklahoma City at the age of 74 years.

Doyle Lavern Simpson was born on January 7, 1938, in Blackwell to Pete Alvie and Hazel Alma (Swadley) Simpson. He grew up in Blackwell attending Blackwell Public Schools and graduated from Blackwell High School in 1956. Following high school he entered the United States Coast Guard serving until 1960. Following his discharge he furthered his education by attending the University of Oklahoma where he wrestled and received a bachelor of science degree in mathematics in 1964. While in college he married Diana Smiskol in 1961. Upon graduation from college he began his teaching and coaching career at Ritenour High School in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1966 he married Anetta Huebee and they settled in St. Louis. In 1968 he moved to Christian Brothers College in St. Louis and taught business courses while coaching wrestling, football and track. In 1975 he continued his educational career at Pattonville High School and continued to coach wrestling as well as teaching accounting courses. In 1983 he returned to Blackwell to coach the Maroon wrestlers and teach in the business department. In 1985 he moved to Marlow, Oklahoma, where he guided the Outlaw wrestling program for two years and taught algebra. In 1987 he began teaching and coaching at Mustang North Middle School in Mustang, Oklahoma, and coached there until his retirement in 2003. His coaching accomplishments include coaching several state champions, all-state wrestlers and U. S. Olympic wrestlers. He was named "Coach of the Year" several times during his career. He was one of the founders of the U. S. Wrestling Federation and served on the all-state selection committee. He also participated in the first cultural exchange wrestling dual. He enjoyed playing tennis, golf and taking his teams on hiking trips. He also competed in boxing.

He is survived by two daughters, Diana Simpson and Angie Simpson both of St. Louis, Missouri; two sons, Scott Simpson of Norman, Oklahoma, and Brad Simpson of Blackwell; and nine grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Leon Simpson; and a sister, Patricia Smith.

A memorial service is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 14th in the Roberts and Son Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell with the Rev. Mark Slay of Miracle Revival Center of St. Louis officiating. Interment will follow in the New Home Cemetery in Eddy.

A memorial has been established in his honor with the Blackwell Takedown Club in c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 W. Padon, Blackwell, Oklahoma 74631.