Barbara Jean Simon

1950 - 2018

Barbara Jean Simon (BJ) was born in Everett, WA, on April 22, 1950 (Earth Day), to Warrin and Jeanne Simon, their second child. She died of pancreatic cancer on April 28, 2018 at 68 years in Kyle, Texas. She was preceded in death by her brother, Ken, in 2003, and her father in 2016. She is survived by her mother, Jeanne Simon, her sister, Susan Greder, by Tom Thickstun whom she was married to for 20 years, by many nieces, nephews, cousin, and lots of good friends in Washington, Oregon, and Texas. She went through all the grades and graduated in 1968 from Monroe High School. Teachers wrote inspiring notes on her report cards. In the grades she would tutor other students to read. She graduated as an honor student and was 13th in a class of '87 and received the "Best Business" award. Her work took her to many states and she worked for several large companies as a computer installer and made reservations for a travel agency. She traveled to many countries. Books were a big thing! BJ loved books! Murder mysteries were her favorite. She belonged to Friends of the Library in Monroe, WA, and was their Treasurer for two years. She volunteered for all the activities they were involved in. Her collection of pottery was extensive. Thrift stores and yard sales were something she enjoyed, always looking for a good deal. BJ moved back to Monroe in 2010, renting the lower half of her parents home for 6.5 years. When her father died, it was decided to sell the home and that made it necessary for her mother to move to Oregon, to be near Susan. On April 22, her birthday, she had a wonderful, amazing birthday party and was able to enjoy it. She passed six days later. BJ will be missed by all. She was laid to rest at Eloise Woods Community Natural Burial Park in Cedar Creek, TX. She chose a "green burial" cemetery hoping to be an example in death for helping the earth. HBO filmed a series on green burials and her story will be aired in 2019. The family is so grateful for all the many good friends she had. They were so helpful in so many ways. We thank you so much! If you wish to make a memorial contribution in BJ's memory, the family suggests the Hospice Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Rd. Ste. 100 Austin, TX 78759 or PAWS Shelter of Central Texas 500FM 150 E Kyle, TX 78640. Any correspondence can be sent to: Jeanne Simon 1801 N.E. Lotus Dr. Apt.W113 Bend, OR 97701.