Former La Plata council member dies at 39

Matthew Simpson, a La Plata council member from 2017 to 2021, died at his La Plata home on Feb. 29. He was 39-years-old.

Simpson’s public service included volunteering as a board member with The Conservancy for Charles County, the Charles County Adult Guardianship Review Board, La Plata Business Association and at the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, a press release said.

He was a part of the Wills for Heroes program, which provided essential legal documents free of charge to first responders, including wills, living wills and powers of attorney.

La Plata’s Mayor Jeannine James said, “I am saddened to learn of the passing of former Councilman Matt Simpson. His commitment and passion as a councilman, along with the visionary ideas he brought for the advancement of our town, were truly remarkable. Please keep his family in your thoughts during this sorrowful time.”

Simpson campaigned for numerous Charles County candidates, including his father, who was an associate judge for the Circuit Court of Charles County, according to his obituary.

In addition to winning a seat on the La Plata Town Council, Simpson was elected to the Charles County Democratic Central Committee in 2006 and was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 2010.

"Matt Simpson's passion for La Plata was unmatched, deeply believing in the town's potential to blend historic charm with modern living," James said. "In his short 39 years, Simpson left an indelible mark on La Plata, his visionary ideas and dedication to community enrichment shaping the town's direction for years to come."

His clerkships gave Simpson experience for a career as a general practice attorney, and he worked at various law offices before beginning his own in 2020.

Simpson remained self-employed until the time of his passing.