Carol Lynn Simmer

Carol Lynn Simmer, 77, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, registered dietitian, gardener, and beloved member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, at her home in Ferndale, Washington, surrounded by those who loved her. She was the cherished wife of Ronald, daughter to her parents, Bonnie Lynn and Carl Pickering, a loving mother to Scott and Rachael, grandmother to Jacob, Sage, and Skyler, sister to Bruce, Ed, and Ford, and sister-in-law to Sue, Robert, Richard, Emily, Juleah and Evalind. She was also a devoted companion to her animals, including her shepherd, Tabby, and her cat, Tux, who brought her daily comfort and joy. Born Carol Lynn Pickering on July 3, 1948, in Jamestown, Ohio, on a family farm called Honey Acres, named for her father’s passion for beekeeping, Carol carried her strong work ethic and deep care for living things throughout her entire life. She graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio with a B.S Applied Science where she met Ron, the love of her life and husband of more than fifty years. Together, they built a life that took them from Ohio to Connecticut, North Carolina, British Columbia, and ultimately to northwest Washington, where they made their home for the past two decades among neighbors who became close friends. As a registered dietitian, Carol devoted her career to improving the lives and health of others. She worked in hospitals and care homes before managing the Meals on Wheels program for the Whatcom County Council on Aging based at the Bellingham Senior Center. Her colleagues knew her as a mentor and advocate, always championing nutrition, wellness, and compassionate care. In addition to her professional work, Carol devoted decades to advancing women’s empowerment and workplace equity through her involvement in the American Association of University Women, including the Canadian and U.S. chapters. Most recently, she was a member of the Bellingham chapter, where she served in multiple roles, including president and membership coordinator. Her favorite moments were presenting scholarships each year to motivated young women. Carol’s ability to connect with people, her warmth, attentiveness, and genuine compassion were among her greatest gifts. She formed meaningful relationships with clients and colleagues alike, and many remember her not only for her work, but for the way she made them feel seen and cared for. She had a deep love of gardening and found peace and joy in tending to growing things. Whether in her yard, through her work, or as a mother and grandmother, she had a quiet and profound way of nurturing life. To those who knew her, she was simply one of the kindest people they had ever met. Her generosity of spirit, gentle presence, and unwavering care for others will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A celebration of life will be held near her birthday this July. For further details, contact rachael@simmer.org. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bellingham AAUW Scholarship Fund.

Carol Lynn Simmer

July 3, 1948 - April 4, 2026