Rachel Simpson: Sister's emotional tribute to east Belfast murder victim as funeral details confirmed

The sister of Belfast mum Rachel Simpson, who was allegedly murdered by her 21-year-old son, has paid an emotional tribute to her “beautiful kind hearted” sibling.

The 43-year-old’s body was discovered in a garage beside her home on the Castlereagh Road in the east of the city last Friday, September 13th. Police launched a murder investigation after the discovery of the mum-of-three's body.

Her son, 21-year-old Nathan Simpson, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with the murder of his mother. A court heard he had been released from prison seven days prior to the incident. He was remanded in custody until October 14th.

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In a tribute online her sister Cher Simpson posted a childhood family photo and said: "My beautiful kind hearted sister Rachel Simpson died on Friday. We mourn a daughter, a sister and a cherished mother of three children.

"Loved by every one who knew her. Heartache is not a feeling I have known until now. We ask for prayers and love as we navigate this as a Simpson family."

On Wednesday, police issued the first image of Ms Simpson. Her family also shared details of a service of love and remembrance for her.

The service will be held next Wednesday, September 25th at Orangefield Presbyterian Church on Castlereagh Road in Belfast at 3pm. It will be followed by a short service at Roselawn and then refreshments at La Mon Country House.

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