Everett Zimmerman

It is with deep sorrow and eternal love that we honor the life of Everett John Zimmerman, who was born in Columbus, Ohio, on September 8, 2020, and passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on January 1, 2022.

Everett made a profound impact on the people who knew and loved him, as well as many who never had the chance to meet him. He was a bright, joyous, and thoughtful toddler who loved weekly trips to the library, reading books with his parents, going on walks outdoors, and being silly before bath time. He had a peaceful and loving personality, reminding those around him to slow down and observe the magic in everyday moments. During each of the 480 days of his life, Everett was deeply cherished and immensely loved.

Everett’s love of reading was commemorated in 2023, when the children’s section at the Columbus Metropolitan Library - Hilliard Branch was renovated in his honor. Additionally, both Highbanks and Glacier Ridge Metro Parks now offer peaceful places to rest and reflect in remembrance of his life.

Though his passing was initially classified as Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC), it was later determined that Everett died from a genetic heart condition called Long QT Syndrome. These findings helped protect and save additional lives within his family, including those of other children. In Everett’s honor, a partnership was established in 2025 between Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Franklin County Coroner to make genetic testing widely accessible to families in Central Ohio facing unexplained pediatric death.

Everett is loved and missed beyond measure by his parents, Kevin and Steph Zimmerman, as well as his grandparents, extended family, teachers, and friends. Though they never had the chance to meet him, his life will also be celebrated and carried forward by his two younger sisters.

“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” – J.R.R. Tolkien