Letha Ann “Lea” Simpkins, 78, of Bedford, died Wednesday, July 22, 2020. She was born in Bedford, VA on August 25, 1941, the daughter of the late Fulton Wright Fuqua and Ruth Craig Fuqua. Lea was a lifelong resident of Bedford County. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and a beloved teacher; retiring from Bedford County Public Schools. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Robert Gardner Simpkins, Jr.; three daughters, Sydney S. Schatz, Courtney S. Garner and husband Dennis, Hunter Simpkins and husband Patrick Gustin; grandchildren, Olivia and Eric Garner; and many cousins. A graveside service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, July 25, 2020 at Greenwood Cemetery with Rev. Dawn Compton officiating. Family will receive friends 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., Friday at Burch-Messier Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut Street, Bedford. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.