Death of well-known Shetland fisherman. Obituary from the Shetland Fishermen’s Association.
Joseph Gilbert “Josie” Simpson (1937–2026)
A steadfast advocate for Shetland’s fishing community and a devoted servant of Whalsay.
The Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Joseph Gilbert “Josie” Simpson, a former SFA Chairman, political leader of the council, and lifelong supporter of Shetland’s fishing industry. Josie died on the 25th March at the age of 88.
Josie’s fishing career spanned more than four decades and reflected the determination and quiet ambition that shaped his life. He began as a young deckhand on the Liberty after leaving school, later joining Mackie Polson on the first Serene before becoming a shareholder on the Fortuna. In time he purchased and skippered the Good Tidings, the first trawler in Whalsay.
The first Azalea was built in Holland in the 1972 and lengthened twice under his command, before a new Azalea was built in Norway in 1980. After being lengthened, she was eventually sold to the Research Fishing Company in 1994. Josie continued with them for a couple of years before leaving pelagics when the new Research came. After skippering on both Scotias he retired to his peerie boat the Silver Spirit where he caught lobsters.
Josie was, at heart, a fisherman. Growing up in Whalsay, he learned early the values that shaped his life: hard work, loyalty, and a deep respect for the sea. Those values guided him throughout his public service and made him one of the most trusted voices for fishermen in Shetland and farther.
His leadership within the fishing industry began long before his time in local politics. Josie served twice as Chairman of the Shetland Fishermen’s Association, first from 1975 to 1979, and again from 1996 to 2003. Few individuals have held the role for so long or with such steady influence. Over the years he played a significant role in national and international fisheries negotiations, where his ability to balance practical experience with strategic thinking earned him the respect of industry representatives from across the UK and beyond. Government officials valued his clarity and honesty, while scientists recognised his voice carried weight.
Elected to Shetland Islands Council in 2002, Josie went on to represent Whalsay, Skerries, and later the North Isles for a decade. He was a forceful, respected advocate for the fishing community, ensuring that the realities of life at sea were understood in the council chamber. His leadership culminated in his election as Political Leader in 2011, where he helped steer the council through a difficult period with calmness, clarity, and a strong sense of duty.
Beyond politics, Josie continued to shape the future of Shetland’s maritime industries. He served as a director on no less than seventeen organisations, always working to strengthen the industry he came from, especially as a Trustee of the Shetland Development Trust, Shetland Fisheries Training Centre Trust and Shetland Fishermen’s Trust. He believed in the provision of quality training, and in giving young fishermen the opportunities they needed to thrive.
Just as importantly, Josie served his own community with the same dedication. In Whalsay, he was involved in countless local efforts that reflected his pride in the isle and its people. The Whalsay Regatta was noted as one of his highlights as well as being a cookhouse stalwart and serving a lengthy stint as commodore of the boating club.
To the SFA and to many across the fleet, Josie was more than a public figure. He was one of our own. He spoke plainly, acted fairly, and never forgot where he came from. Whether across a negotiating table or in the council chamber, he brought the same calm authority, fairness, and quiet determination. His advocacy for fishermen, his service to Whalsay, and his commitment to Shetland’s future leave a legacy that will be remembered with gratitude.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Hazel, their bairns and extended families, friends, and all who worked alongside him. The fishing community has lost a steadfast ally, a dedicated servant of his isle, and a truly modest gentleman.
Sheila Keith
Executive Officer
Shetland Fishermen’s Association
Image: Daniel J. Schwarz, Unsplash