[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E135-E136]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MS. PEGGY SIMPSON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 12, 2026

   Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. 
Peggy Simpson, an extraordinary woman whose life of service exemplifies 
the spirit of compassion, generosity, and community uplift that Dr. 
Martin Luther King, Jr., so powerfully championed.
  In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Ms. Simpson, alongside 
a small group of dedicated volunteers, served lunch to nearly 100 
individuals at the River City Rescue Mission in Vicksburg, Mississippi. 
This act was not merely a meal--it was a living tribute to Dr. King's 
legacy of service, dignity, and love for humanity. As Ms. Simpson so 
eloquently stated, she honors that legacy ``by spreading kindness to 
those in need.''
  Originally from New York, Ms. Simpson has devoted her life to helping 
others. Since relocating to Vicksburg in 2014, she has volunteered five 
days a week at the Salvation Army, regularly serves meals at the River 
City Rescue Mission, and often provides assistance out of her own 
pocket. Whether serving her well-known spaghetti, organizing donations, 
or quietly meeting individual needs, Ms. Simpson serves without 
expectation of recognition.
  Her commitment extends beyond organized volunteerism. Over the 
Christmas holiday, she sponsored fifteen children through the Angel 
Tree program and distributed blankets to individuals facing hardship. 
As winter temperatures drop below freezing, she continues to collect 
coats and plans to serve breakfast to those in need, demonstrating 
foresight, humility, and deep respect for the organizations and people 
she serves.
  Ms. Simpson's service is rooted in profound personal strength. A 
mother of five, she has endured unimaginable loss, including the 
passing of two sons. Yet through grief, she continues to give, guided 
by faith, family, and an unwavering belief in human dignity. She 
reminds us that service is not about color, class, or circumstance--but 
about seeing people.
  Her children, whom she describes as ``blessed,'' often join her in 
serving others, ensuring that her legacy of compassion will carry 
forward to future generations.
  Ms. Simpson's life is a powerful reminder that true leadership is 
found not in titles, but

[[Page E136]]

in action. Her words--``Do whatever you can, because everybody needs 
help''--reflect the very best of our shared values.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Peggy 
Simpson for her tireless service, her generous heart, and her enduring 
commitment to uplifting her community. Her example strengthens us all 
and honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.