Janell Ashley Simpson

Janell Ashley Simpson, 78, of Abbeville, wife of the late Dean Simpson, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at her home. She was born in Abbeville to the late Wilbert Ashley and Edna Ashley Bannister.

A 1965 graduate of Abbeville High School, Janell retired from Flexible Technologies after more than 30 years of dedicated service. She previously worked at Monsanto and Abbeville Shirtmakers. Beyond her career, it was her boundless love for family and friends that truly defined her legacy. Janell’s nurturing personality earned her the affectionate titles of ‘mama’ and ‘maamaa’ from numerous friends and family. Her home was a gathering place where laughter echoed, memories were created, and it was filled with the delightful aroma of her famous french fries and biscuits. Janell had a passion for cooking and lovingly baked cakes for family gatherings and special occasions. When she wasn’t in the kitchen, she enjoyed reading. Janell was a member of Keowee Baptist Church and worshipped at South Side Baptist Church in Abbeville, SC.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothe r, Earl Ashley.

Janell is survived by her two daughters, Tabitha S. Brantly (Bert) and Tina S. Sumner (Jonathan), all of Abbeville; four grandchildren, Emily Rodriguez (Blake), Ashley Maynor (Austin), Katy Nell Rogers (Henry) and Bailey Sumner; and five great-grandchildren, Lukas, Drew, Wyatt, Isla and Ada.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to Dr. Sadursky and the staff of the Cancer Center at Self Regional Healthcare, Dr. Steven Adams at Abbeville Hospital, Lauren Hastings and Michelle Garner for their love and care.

A celebration of Janell’s life will be 5:00PM, Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at South Side Baptist Church, 505 W. Greenwood St., Abbeville, SC with Rev. Joel Bradberry officiating.

Memorial contributions, in memory of Janell, may be sent to the Baillie Players, c/o Milner Martin, PO Box 268, Inman, SC 29349.

Her legacy as a devoted family matriarch and nurturing friend will live on in the hearts of those she touched throughout her lifetime.

The family is at the home of Tina and Jonathan Sumner in Abbeville, SC.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Simpson family.