Rochelle Ida “Shelley” Simpson, 61 of Springfield, passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. She was born on May 12, 1964, in Chicago, the daughter of Richard and Barbara (Schwartz) Freitag. She was married to Michael Simpson, and he preceded her in death on May 3, 2024. Shelley worked as a case manager for Molina. She loved her kids and family with ferocity—they were her reason—and she was a steadfast caretaker and protector not only of her family, but also of her friends and animals in need. Shelley will be remembered for her generous spirit, maternal nature towards others, creativity, and deep love for animals. She found joy in crafting, thoughtfully making and giving gifts that reflected her caring nature, and took delight in collecting dolls and miniatures that captured her imagination. Her compassion extended beyond her home through her volunteer work with the Animal Protective League, where she dedicated her time to helping animals in need. In addition to her devotion to family, Shelley opened her heart and her home, ensuring her holiday table always had a place for those in need of a surrogate family. At home, she was a devoted companion to her three cats, her bird, and her dog, all of whom she cherished dearly. Shelley’s kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. She was also well known for her sarcastic sense of humor that was embraced by everyone she knew.
She is survived by her father: Richard Freitag of Springfield; sons: Landon Pillsbury of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Jared Streder (Jasmyn McKenna) of Springfield, and Shane Cervantes (Robert) of Springfield; granddaughter: Nichole Petrea; brother: Howard Freitag (Randee) of Sedona, Arizona; and niece: Rhiannon Freitag. She was preceded in death by her mother Barbara Freitag.
Shelley will be cremated and her family will host a celebration of life on Saturday, May 9th, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Aqua Sports Club, 1 Club Area Ln., Springfield, IL 62712. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Animal Protective League. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
