URGENT UPDATE: Sharon Simpson, a beloved matriarch and community figure, has passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 92 on October 31, 2025. Her family confirmed that she died of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.
Born on April 24, 1933, in Fresno, CA, Sharon was the daughter of Chester A. “Jack” Washer and Nina Story Washer. Tragically, she lost her brother Story in a car accident at just 16 years old. In 1953, she relocated to Santa Cruz, CA with her infant son Mark, where she began her career as a switchboard operator at Pacific Telephone Co.
Sharon’s life took a joyful turn when she met the love of her life, Jim Simpson, at the Edgewater Bar in Capitola. Their love story is marked by a near miss during the 1955 flood of the San Lorenzo River, when Jim desperately tried to reach Sharon and baby Mark. Their reunion led to marriage that same year, and they welcomed four children: KC, Christina, Tony, and Stephanie.
Throughout the 1970s, Sharon contributed to her community as a teacher’s aide at Harbor High. Later, she fulfilled her passion for fashion by opening The Clothes Cottage, a consignment shop in Capitola. With Jim, she traveled extensively, creating lasting memories until his death from Alzheimer’s in 2011.
In her final wishes, Sharon expressed a desire to be reunited with Jim, urging her family to “call Jim and tell him where she was.” This poignant request highlights the depth of their enduring love.
Sharon is preceded in death by her husband Jim, brother Story, daughter-in-law Brenda Simpson, stepdaughter Lisa Armstrong, and cousin Shirley Bennett. She leaves behind a large family, including her children Mark (Ann), KC (Pete), Christina (Jim), Tony, Stephanie (Alex), alongside 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
The family expressed profound gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Jennifer Gonzalez and the team at Hospice of Santa Cruz County, enabling Sharon to spend her final days at home.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for December 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Sesnon House at Cabrillo College in Aptos. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice of Santa Cruz County to honor Sharon’s legacy.
This story resonates deeply, reflecting the impact of a life filled with love, resilience, and cherished family bonds. As the community mourns her passing, they also celebrate the remarkable woman Sharon was.
