Jim and Tina Simpson – Les Marie Florist
HerrinFesta Italiana 2026 Corporate Honoree
Les Marie Florist in Herrin, Illinois, is a legendary business known throughout the region for beautiful floral arrangements, gifts, and exceptional service for all occasions.
For 38 years, owners Jim and Tina Simpson have created seasonal window displays, designed hundreds of funeral arrangements, casket sprays, cemetery silk flowers, prom bouquets, and managed demanding holiday events for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day at their longtime location at 1001 South Park Avenue.
Jim Simpson’s Floral Career
Jim Simpson is a 1973 graduate of Marion High School. While still in high school, he began participating in a CVE work program in 1972 at Fox’s Flowers in Marion.
He remained there until 1976, where his floral design talent was recognized and developed. Jim’s formal floral design training came through working alongside many of southern Illinois’ master floral designers.
Today, Jim marks more than 53 years in the floral industry.
A Family Business Built Together
Jim married Tina Davis of Herrin in September 1976. Tina is a beautician and graduate of the John A. Logan College Cosmetology Program.
Together, Jim and Tina combined their floral design talents and strong personal relationships with customers to build one of the most successful flower and gift shops in the region.
Their first location was next to Herrin City Hall. In April 1996, the couple purchased Les Marie Florist and moved the business to its current location at 1001 South Park Avenue in Herrin.
Family and Community
Jim and Tina have two daughters:
- Lesleigh Simpson-Bennett (Chris)
- Mariessa Simpson-Orso (Curt)
They are also proud grandparents of five grandchildren.
The Simpson family shares a deep connection to the Herrin community and to the many customers and families they have served throughout the decades.
Jim and Tina Simpson will be honored at the HerrinFesta Italiana Mayor’s Banquet on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Herrin Civic Center.
