Gilberta Joy Simon, "Birdie" to everyone she knew and loved, was known for her exceptional timing.She entered the world on December 7th, 1941, amid extraordinary global circumstances.She left us on December 21, 2020 after a short battle with aggressive cancer, dying peacefully in her sleep, in her own bed, on the Winter Solstice day, during which we would see the Christmas Star in the night sky for the only time in our lives.She was 79.

The daughter of Gilbert and Josephine Burns, Birdie was born and raised in Orange County, California; she resided in El Toro/Lake Forest for more than 50 years. She devoted her life to others, raising her children, helping to raise your children, and making this community better. You didn't get away with anything on the playground at Aliso Elementary when Birdie was on duty, and you were safe to cross through the Lake Forest tunnels because of her.

Birdie had a passion for traveling the world, and her fondest times were spent in far-off places with those she loved. Her adventures filled her heart with joy. She was generous with money, but also with her heart and time.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Barry Scott Simon; her 3 children, Dave Simon and his partner Susan Riddle, Dale Simon, and Heather Simon Risinger and her husband Karl Risinger; and by her 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her precious sisters Joan Greer, Diana Rangitsch, Linda Schonert, and Eddie Burns; and by her nieces, who are collectively known as the "Burns Girls."

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested donations to the American Cancer Society in honor of Gilberta, which can be made through the following link:
https://donate3.cancer.org/