John Alexander Simpson Honored at Council Meeting

John Alexander Simpson III, along with his family, were honored at the October 17, 2023 council meeting by Mayor Randall Walker.

The proclamation reads:

Whereas, The City of Perry is pleased to extend special recognition to John Alexander Simpson, III on the anniversary of his birth, September 20, 1954; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III celebrated his 69th birthday with a gathering of his family and friends on September 22, 2023; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III is married to Cheryl Drucilla Simpson and the proud father of one daughter, three grandchildren and four great grandchildren; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III is the original Bass Guitarist and Songwriter for the Legendary SOS Band who gained fame in the 80’s and is best known for the hit song “Take Your Time (Do It Right) which was certified platinum selling over two million copies. The group recorded several other hits that were certified gold including “Just Be Good to Me” and “Tell Me If You Still Care” that was included on the album “On the Rise” which included the title cut “On the Rise” written by John Simpson; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III toured the world and performed on several popular TV shows including the legendary Soul Train and Solid Gold. He performed on the same shows with artists such as Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, Kool & The Gang, and many others; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III is the Distinguished Senior Pastor and Founder of Temple of Miracles Worship Center (20 years). There he pastors, teaches, and preaches the Word of God to effect change in the lives of God’s People. He serves as an Oasis of Hope helping people with food, shelter, and clothing; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III is a recipient of The NACCP Humanitarian Award, a recipient of the Distinguished Pastor’s Award from Phillips School of Theology, 6th Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and U.S. Army Veteran; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III is a vital part of the Perry community. John served as Choir Director/Musician and Local Minister at St. James CME in Perry, Georgia for 12 years, Fort Valley State University Upward Bound Music Program, and helped with the music departments at several other churches in Middle Georgia; and

Whereas, John Alexander Simpson, III is certainly deserving of high praise.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of Perry, Georgia, do hereby extend CONGRATULATIONS and BEST WISHES to John Alexander Simpson, III on this very special occasion, and do so declare September 20, 2023, as John Alexander Simpson, III Day in the City of Perry.

SO PROCLAIMED this 17th day of October in the Year of our Lord, 2023.