Joe Simon (American, 1913-2011)

Joe Simon (American, b. 1913): is one of the most important and successful comic book creators in comics history. After a short stint as an editor at Fox Publications in 1939, Simon moved over to Timely where he became the company's first editor. By this time he had partnered with Jack Kirby to form the legendary Simon & Kirby team, and the duo had a major hit in 1941 with Captain America. After a dispute with Timely over royalties and other promised compensation, Simon & Kirby moved from company to company, extending their legacy of groundbreaking creations. For Fawcett, they produced the first complete issue starring Captain Marvel, at DC, they produced the Boy Commandos, Newsboy Legion, Sandman, and Manhunter. They also pioneered new genres such as kid gang and romance. The Simon & Kirby partnership ended in 1955, with both men continuing their careers, occasionally teaming again for special projects. Simon continued his career working at Harvey and Sick magazine. In 1990 Simon wrote a colorful history of comics, The Comic Book Makers, and even at age 95, Simon continued to give interviews, write, draw, edit and publish, setting an unparalleled record for longevity in a field famous for its quick turnover.