5 Essential Facts About Rebecca Wylie Simms: The Life And Legacy Of The Lady & Larder Co-Founder

The culinary world is currently mourning the profound loss of a bright and influential figure, Rebecca Wylie Simms. Known affectionately to many as "Boo," the popular food and lifestyle influencer, and co-founder of the celebrated Los Angeles-based cheese shop Lady & Larder, tragically passed away at the age of 39. This heartbreaking news, which surfaced in late 2024, was confirmed by her twin sister and business partner, Sarah Simms Hendrix, following complications from a recent surgery.

The sudden passing of Simms has left a significant void in the food community, particularly among those who followed her vibrant social media presence and admired the success of her unique, all-domestic cheese and cured meat venture. As of today, December 18, 2025, fans and colleagues are celebrating her life and legacy, which was marked by creativity, entrepreneurship, and a deep passion for American-made culinary products. This article explores the essential facts of her life, career, and the lasting impact she made.

Rebecca Wylie Simms: A Detailed Biography and Career Profile

Rebecca Wylie Simms, often referred to as Boo Simms, was a powerhouse in the food and restaurant industry, known for her entrepreneurial spirit and creative direction. Her career spanned influential roles in major restaurant groups and culminated in the creation of an iconic Los Angeles establishment.

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• Full Name: Rebecca Wylie Simms
• Nickname: Boo Simms
• Date of Passing: Announced in late 2024 (Age 39)
• Cause of Death: Complications following surgery
• Twin Sister & Business Partner: Sarah Simms Hendrix
• Key Role (Co-Founder): Lady & Larder (Santa Monica, CA)
• Key Role (Corporate): Senior Creative Director at Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
• Previous Roles: Wylie West Creative, California Restaurant Association
• Family Connection: Her father, Tom Simms, was the founder of the popular Mimi's Cafe chain.
• Industry Focus: Food influencing, lifestyle, domestic cheese, cured meats, charcuterie boards.

The Lady & Larder Phenomenon: Building a Cheese Empire

Rebecca Simms's most visible and celebrated achievement was the co-founding of Lady & Larder, a Santa Monica staple she created alongside her twin sister, Sarah Simms Hendrix. The shop quickly became an "Instagram sensation" and a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts across Los Angeles and beyond.

The core philosophy of Lady & Larder was a dedicated commitment to supporting American producers. The shop exclusively sourced and sold 100% domestic cheese and cured meats, a mission that resonated deeply with their community and highlighted high-quality, local craftsmanship.

The sisters were best known for their "immaculately crafted charcuterie boards." These boards were not merely food arrangements; they were works of art that elevated the simple act of grazing to a sophisticated culinary experience. This unique approach to presentation and sourcing established Lady & Larder's reputation for excellence and garnered a following that included many celebrity supporters and friends.

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The success of the shop cemented Rebecca's status as a top food and lifestyle influencer. Her vision transformed a small business into a powerful brand that championed American agriculture and artisanal food production, setting a high standard for the industry.

More Than an Influencer: Rebecca's Corporate and Creative Depth

While Lady & Larder brought Rebecca Wylie Simms into the public eye as an entrepreneur and influencer, her professional background was deeply rooted in the broader restaurant industry. Her corporate experience provided a powerful foundation for her entrepreneurial success, demonstrating a blend of creative flair and strategic business acumen.

Prior to and concurrent with her work at Lady & Larder, Simms held the demanding position of Senior Creative Director at Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar. In this role, she was instrumental in shaping the brand's identity, marketing, and overall creative vision, contributing to the success of the nationwide restaurant chain.

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Her experience also included working with the California Restaurant Association and running her own venture, Wylie West Creative. This diverse background, spanning from large-scale corporate strategy to small-business artisanal curation, showcased her versatility and deep understanding of the food landscape. She was a true industry professional who began her food career after formal studies, further underscoring her commitment to the craft.

The Heartbreaking Announcement and Community Response

The news of Rebecca's passing was delivered in a profoundly emotional statement by her twin sister, Sarah Simms Hendrix, on the Lady & Larder Instagram account. Sarah's message conveyed the immense grief and shock felt by the family and the community, referring to the loss as "devastating." The announcement highlighted the inseparable bond between the twin sisters, who were not only business partners but also best friends who grew up together in the kitchen.

The outpouring of support from fans, customers, and industry peers was immediate and overwhelming. Tributes poured in from across the globe, praising her kindness, her creativity, and the joy she brought to the world through her passion for food. Many noted her inspiring goal shared just weeks before her passing: to "trust the process" in 2025, a sentiment that now serves as a poignant reminder of her optimistic spirit.

Her legacy is not just in the beautiful charcuterie boards she created, but in the community she built and the American food producers she championed. Rebecca Wylie Simms, or Boo, will be remembered as a visionary co-founder, a creative director, a beloved twin sister, and a food influencer who left an indelible mark on the industry far too soon.