WS Chronicle

Rev. Dr. Michael “Mike” Simpson’s work with older adults began in the late 1970s as a young pastor at First Christian Church in Winston-Salem. He had an affinity for working with older parishioners, and when the Shepherd’s Center approached him about their need for space for their Adventures in Learning Program, he didn’t hesitate to help.

This was just the beginning of his service to older adults. After retiring as senior minister, he did a complete career change and started a book publishing company where he focused on helping older writers get their books published. This led to leading classes for seniors in writing and in getting published.

His association with the Shepherd’s Center has continued, and he has served on their board of directors and currently chairs the Vital Living committee. He also leads workshops based on his book, “Fix Your Family.” A family wellness coach, he holds two monthly “Ask the Doctor” sessions at the Shepherd’s Center, as well as classes in spirituality, church history and communication skills. And he still finds time to teach warm water exercise classes at Arbor Acres and Salemtowne. When needed, he serves as a bus driver, transporting seniors on educational and recreational trips.

In 2017 Simpson decided to participate in Piedmont Plus Senior Games and with his usual enthusiasm, he didn’t stop with competing in just one game, he entered in – and won – eight medals!

A native of Norman, Oklahoma, Simpson graduated from the University of North Texas with a summa cum laude in philosophy, received his Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School and the Doctor of Ministry degree from San Francisco Theological Seminary.

He is a novelist, portrait artist, musician and a marathoner in his spare time. He was named The Chronicle’s For Seniors Only! Award winner at its 33rd Annual Community Service Awards Banquet on Saturday, March 24.