Funeral Service of FS Les Simpson (Rtd),
Christ the King Church, RAF Cosford
Friday 19 June 2026

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On Friday 19th June 2026, Padre Dave Skillen, Senior Chaplain at RAF Cosford and Principal Catholic Chaplain (RAF), conducted the funeral service of RAF veteran Flight Sergeant Les Simpson, at the RAF Cosford Station Church of Christ the King.

 

Les was 84 years old and served for almost 40 years in uniform, having joined up as a Boy Entrant aged just 16 years old. On retirement from uniformed service Les served a further 10 years as a civilian instructor at RAF Cosford. Les was also an active member of the Wrekin Gliding Club for 41 years. He was passionate about the RAF and about gliding, always determined to inspire the next generation of RAF technicians and gliders.

 

One of his final wishes was that a padre from RAF Cosford conduct his funeral service. WO Kevin Simpson, Les' son, still serving, said, "my dad would have been utterly delighted to know his funeral service was taking place in the station church and led by a station padre. He was very fond of the padres and as a family, when my brother, sister and I were kids, we worshipped at the station church for many years. My sister was Christened here.  

 

Moving tributes were offered by family and friends. Deacon Dave said, "it was a most fitting farewell for a faithful RAF servant who gave so much to his Service, Country, and Queen (Elizabeth II). Having commended his soul to almighty God, we pray he may now know the mercy, love and peace of his Lord and Saviour." Les leaves behind his dear wife, Florence, and their children, Kevin, Roger and Sasha, and their families.​​