Rebecca Wylie Simms, a beloved food influencer, entrepreneur, and creative force, tragically passed away on Monday in California due to complications arising from a surgical procedure. Her untimely death has left a void in the lives of her family, friends, and the culinary community she so vibrantly enriched. Known affectionately as “Boo” to her close circle, Rebecca was a twin sister, mother of two young daughters, and co-founder of the popular Santa Monica cheese shop, Lady & Larder. Her passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from those whose lives she touched, including numerous celebrities who frequented her establishment.
Rebecca’s twin sister, Sarah, shared the devastating news on the Lady & Larder Instagram page, expressing profound sorrow and describing the immeasurable loss. She painted a poignant portrait of her sister, calling her a “magic maker,” a “color painter,” and the “brightest light” she had ever known. The heartfelt tribute captured the essence of Rebecca’s vibrant spirit and the deep bond the twins shared, both personally and professionally. Sarah requested patience and understanding as she and her family navigate this immensely painful period. The announcement also revealed the temporary closure of the Carmel Valley branch of Lady & Larder, a testament to the profound impact of Rebecca’s passing on the business she helped build.
The twin sisters founded Lady & Larder in 2016, transforming their passion for gourmet food into a thriving enterprise. Their shop, specializing in high-quality cheeses and meats, quickly gained a loyal following, including numerous celebrities residing in the area. The success of their Santa Monica location led to the expansion of their business with the opening of a second store in Carmel Valley. Rebecca’s creative vision and dedication were instrumental in shaping the brand’s identity and cultivating its warm and inviting atmosphere.
Beyond her role at Lady & Larder, Rebecca also held the position of Senior Creative Director at Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar. A family friend described her as a “beacon of light in the creative world,” highlighting her influential presence and inspiring contributions to the culinary and design spheres. Her innovative spirit and artistic sensibilities touched various aspects of her work, leaving a lasting impression on both businesses she was involved with.
The news of Rebecca’s passing reverberated through social media, with an outpouring of condolences and heartfelt messages flooding the comments section of Sarah’s Instagram post. Celebrities, including actress and singer Mandy Moore and actress Busy Phillips, expressed their grief and offered support to Sarah and her family. Moore described Rebecca as a “beautiful light,” echoing the sentiments shared by many who knew her, while Phillips offered condolences and love to the grieving family. The numerous tributes stand as a testament to the wide reach of Rebecca’s influence and the deep affection she inspired in those who knew her.
Rebecca is survived by her partner, Sean, and their two young daughters, Mavis, 3, and Bertie Lou, 2. Their lives, tragically altered by this sudden loss, will undoubtedly be shaped by the vibrant memory of their mother, whose creative spirit, warm personality, and entrepreneurial drive left an indelible mark on the world around her. The outpouring of support from friends, family, and the wider community underscores the profound impact Rebecca had and the lasting legacy she leaves behind. Her story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we share with our loved ones. As the community mourns her passing, her memory will continue to inspire and illuminate the lives she touched. The closing of the Carmel Valley location, at least temporarily, serves as a poignant symbol of the void left by her absence. While the future of Lady & Larder remains uncertain, the legacy of Rebecca’s passion and creativity will undoubtedly endure.
