Influencer and Mom of Two, Rebecca Wylie Simms, Dies at 39
Rebecca Wylie Simms’ untimely passing has sent shockwaves through fans and loved ones, as they mourn the loss of a devoted mother, talented entrepreneur, and cherished twin sister.
Rebecca, a 39-year-old food influencer and mother of two, has tragically passed away from complications following surgery.
Co-founder of the celebrity-favorite cheese shop Lady & Larder with her twin sister, Sarah Simms Hendrix, Rebecca died earlier this week in California. She is survived by her partner, Sean, and their two daughters, three-year-old Mavis and two-year-old Lou.
The news of her passing was confirmed by Sarah in a heartfelt statement shared on the Lady & Larder Instagram account on January 19, 2025.
Sarah wrote, “It is with profound sadness that I share the devastating loss of my twin sister and co-founder, Boo Simms, who passed away this week due to a tragic surgery complication. This loss is immeasurable, and our hearts are completely shattered.”
She further mentioned, “Boo was our magic maker, our color painter, and the brightest light I have ever known. We ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this overwhelmingly painful time.”
Sarah also revealed the temporary closure of their Carmel Valley store, stating that the Santa Monica location would remain open. She asked for understanding during this difficult time and thanked their community for their unwavering support, “Your continued support means more than words could ever say.”
Rebecca was widely loved for her artistry and zest for life. Outside of her work at Lady & Larder, she was also an artist and creative director. In her Instagram bio, she introduced herself simply as “[My] friends call me Boo.”
As of now, the exact nature of the surgical complications leading to her death has not been disclosed. Still, the devastating news has sparked an outpouring of grief and love across social media.
On TikTok, users expressed their heartbreak, with one writing, “Good god she’s been taken from her little babies so young,” while another added, “This is truly heartbreaking. Sending love and strength to Rebecca’s family during this difficult time.”
Mother Mag also shared a touching tribute on Instagram, reflecting on their interview with Rebecca and her sister last year. They wrote, “Boo’s love for her two young daughters and her wider family was palpable.”
Rebecca had shared her philosophy on motherhood, stating, “My daughters are my muses. The way they experience the world around them has really inspired me to slow down and look closer at everything… It’s honestly my greatest honor in life to get to share this with them.”
The mom of two also expressed how much she cherished the simple joys of motherhood. She described the everyday wonders she experienced with her daughters, saying it was a privilege to guide them “not just through milestones, but mostly through the subtleties of all the everyday wonders—like the feeling of sand between our toes, the sound of crickets… rainbows after rain.”
Rebecca added, “I could cry just thinking about it. It’s honestly my greatest honor in life to get to share this with them.” Mother Mag concluded their post by saying, “We’re sending all of our love to Sarah & all of Boo’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
Rebecca’s last Instagram post, dated January 3, 2025, is now being viewed as a poignant reminder of her vibrant spirit and outlook on life.
She wrote, “Our magic ride continues on this little blue marble. My toast for 2025: may we remember to wake up and dance…go slowly, follow what makes you feel, and be amazed by it all.”
The post included endearing photos of Rebecca with her daughters and loved ones, capturing the essence of familial warmth. Her words of gratitude and hope have resonated deeply with fans and friends in light of her passing.
Rebecca and Sarah, who celebrated their 39th birthday in December 2024, shared an extraordinary bond. Sarah once described their journey as “sharing our birthday (and just about everything else) since the beginning of time.”
Their collaborative venture, Lady & Larder, was a testament to their shared passion and creativity, leaving an indelible mark on the food industry.
Lady & Larder earned widespread recognition for its artisanal cheese boards, charcuterie, and hidden sandwich menu. Located in Santa Monica, the shop is a favorite for its curated selections of wine, flowers, and high-quality ingredients, attracting a devoted following, including celebrities and food enthusiasts.
Rebecca’s legacy will live on through her artistry, her contributions to Lady & Larder, and the countless lives she touched through her work and family.
While her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her vibrant spirit and words of wisdom will be remembered by all who knew her.