Terry Simpson

Terry Mark Simpson, 66, of Santa Fe passed into the arms of our Lord on Tuesday, February 17, 2021. Mark was born to Joe and Ora Simpson on September 8, 1954, at Abilene, TX. At the age of nine, Mark was admitted to National Jewish Health Hospital in Denver, CO, for two years of treatment for severe asthma. After graduating Cooper High School, Mark remained in the Abilene area, working in construction for a number of years. Later, he transitioned into a career specializing in grocery sales. While living in Abilene, Mark served as a deacon and active volunteer at Southwest Park Baptist Church, a congregation started in his parents’ home. Mark loved photography, collecting old records, and anything to do with Cooper Athletics.

After moving to Santa Fe in the early 2000’s, Mark continued his passion for helping others in his community. Mark became an effective advocate for behavioral health services in New Mexico. He was appointed by the Governor to the New Mexico Behavioral Health Planning Council, where he served for several years in an advisory capacity on behavioral health policy. Mark was also very active in his Local Collaborative for the NM Behavioral Health Collaborative. He also served for several years on the board of directors for La Familia Medical Center. He continued his passion for high school athletics and was a fixture at St. Michael’s High School football, baseball and girls’ basketball games. He volunteered his services to the programs in concessions, field maintenance and anywhere else he was needed. In all of Mark’s activities, he was beloved for his genuine friendliness, sense of humor and ready wit.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Ora (Hawkins) Simpson, brother Wesley Simpson, sister Karla Meador and his long-time partner JoAnn Garcia. He is survived by his sister Janice Cook of Abilene, TX and his dear friends Sam Baca and Rita Rios-Baca of Santa Fe. 

Due to COVID restrictions and respect for those at continued risk, a public funeral will not be held. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mark to La Familia Medical Center in Santa Fe, are encouraged.