UPDATE: Sharon Simpson, a cherished matriarch and educator, passed away peacefully at home on October 31, 2025, at the age of 92 due to natural causes. Her family confirmed her passing, marking the end of a remarkable life filled with love, resilience, and community.
Born on April 24, 1933, in Fresno, CA, Sharon’s journey took her to Santa Cruz in 1953, where she began a new chapter as a switchboard operator at Pacific Telephone Co. It was there she met Jim Simpson, the love of her life, at the Edgewater Bar in Capitola. Their love story began amid the chaos of the 1955 floods, which briefly separated them but could not keep them apart for long. They married that same year, and their family grew to include four children: KC, Christina, Tony, and Stephanie.
Sharon dedicated part of her career to education, serving as a teacher’s aide in the Home Economics department at Harbor High during the 1970s. Later, she became a beloved local business owner, running The Clothes Cottage, a consignment shop in Capitola, where she created lasting friendships and memories.
The couple traveled widely after retiring, sharing a deep bond until Jim’s death from Alzheimer’s in 2011. Sharon remained devoted to him throughout her life. In one of her poignant final wishes, she asked her family to “call Jim and tell him where she was. He needed to come pick her up.” This heartfelt moment exemplifies their enduring love.
Sharon is survived by her children, Mark Simpson (Ann), KC Espinoza (Pete), Christina Martin (Jim), Tony Simpson, and Stephanie Willhoit (Alex), along with 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brother, Story Washer, and daughter-in-law Brenda Simpson, among others.
The family expresses deep gratitude to Jennifer Gonzalez for her loving care during Sharon’s last year and to the compassionate team at Hospice of Santa Cruz County, who supported her wish to remain at home.
A Celebration of Life will take place on December 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Sesnon House at Cabrillo College in Aptos. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice of Santa Cruz County.
Sharon Simpson’s legacy of love, family, and community will be cherished by all who knew her. Share your memories and condolences as we honor her remarkable life.
