Jill Simpson Obituary: Environmental Interpreter Dies at 76 2026

Jake Harrison

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The Jill Simpson obituary celebrates the life of a passionate environmental interpreter and social activist who passed away at 76. Her work at Pembrokeshire Coast national park shaped how thousands engage with the landscape. She designed interpretation boards, led guided walks, and commissioned artwork that connected people to nature.

Early Life and Education

Born at New Moat Farm in Pembrokeshire, Jill was the daughter of farmers Myrtle and Richard Simpson. She attended several schools, primarily as a boarder at St Winifred’s convent in Swansea. She then studied at University College London, earning a psychology degree in 1972.

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Career and Social Activism

Jill’s strong sense of social justice emerged early. She taught science at Peckham Manor school in south-east London, worked at a women’s shelter, a legal firm, and with the charity Release, supporting people with drug addiction. In the mid-1970s, she joined protest squats on Villa Road in Brixton, co-authoring a chapter in the 1980 book Squatting: The Real Story. She also appeared in a 2006 documentary.

Return to Wales and Environmental Work

After her relationship ended in 1988, Jill moved back to west Wales. She taught at Nant-y-Cwm Steiner school and later earned an environmental master’s degree in 2001. This led her to a role as interpretation officer for Pembrokeshire Coast national park, where she combined education, access, and collaboration.

Community Impact

Jill was a volunteer helping to establish Croeso Arberth, a community initiative that settled a Syrian refugee family in Pembrokeshire. In 2017, the group received Liberty’s More in Common award, established in memory of Jo Cox. Jill was also active in the Labour party.

Key Achievements Table

Achievement	Year	Impact
Co-author of Squatting: The Real Story	1980	Documented the squatting movement in London
Master’s degree in environmental studies	2001	Led to career as interpretation officer
Croeso Arberth refugee initiative	2017	Received Liberty’s More in Common award

Key Takeaways

Jill Simpson dedicated her life to environmental interpretation and social justice.
She designed interpretation boards and guided walks for Pembrokeshire Coast national park.
She co-founded a community group that settled a Syrian refugee family.
Her legacy continues to inspire connections to nature and community activism.

FAQ

What was Jill Simpson known for?

Jill Simpson was known as an environmental interpreter for Pembrokeshire Coast national park and a social activist involved in squatting and refugee support.

How did Jill Simpson contribute to the community?

She helped establish Croeso Arberth, a group that settled a Syrian refugee family, earning the Liberty’s More in Common award.

What inspired Jill Simpson’s environmental work?

After earning an environmental master’s degree in 2001, she combined her love of education, nature, and collaboration to create interpretation programs.

Author

Jake Harrison

With 20+ years as a wilderness guide and NOLS-certified instructor, Jake specializes in camping, hiking, fishing, and survival skills. He's led expeditions across North America and contributed to Backpacker Magazine. Jake's expert advice focuses on safe, sustainable outdoor adventures for all skill levels.

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