Carol Jean Simonton

Carol Pfauser Simonton grew up in Maplewood near Lake Charles, Louisiana, surrounded by the steady support of her parents, Jerry and Jean Pfauser. After several years in Clearwater, Florida, the family returned to Lake Charles, where Carol graduated from Sulphur High School in 1960. As an only child, she shared a close relationship with both of her parents—a connection that influenced her approach to family, work, and life. She discovered her interest in art early on and began college as an art major before deciding to pursue education. She graduated with high honors from the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette with a degree in Education. Although she shifted her focus to education, Carol continued painting throughout her life, creating watercolor landscapes.

Carol married her best friend & husband, Frank Hamilton Simonton Jr., on August 19, 1964. After spending their early years together in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Carol and Frank moved to Houston, Texas, in 1973. They lived in Northampton before moving to Kingwood in 1981, where they remained for almost forty years. During that time, they built lasting friendships, participated in their community, and raised their family. Carol and Frank were members of the First Presbyterian Church of Kingwood and were active in the Kingwood Forest Community Association.

Carol began her career as a history and grammar teacher at Baker Middle School near Baton Rouge. She was known for setting high expectations and helping her students develop strong critical thinking and writing skills. Many of her former students later returned to tell her that she had been one of their hardest teachers—but also their favorite. After leaving the classroom, Carol devoted her time to raising her children and volunteering at their schools and sports activities. Her background in art showed up often—her children’s school projects and team banners were frequently referred to as “home masterpieces.”

Carol had a wide range of interests. She was a dedicated collector of Early American–century antiques, gradually building a collection that she enjoyed and took pride in. She appreciated the history behind each piece and the process of finding items that complemented one another. Carol cared deeply about animals and adopted ten shelter dogs and cats over the course of her life. She also enjoyed traveling, with France, Scotland, Italy, New England, and Cashiers, North Carolina among her favorite places. Her competitive nature showed itself in her love of tennis, golf, and canasta. She was smart, well read, had a quick wit, and always made people laugh.

Carol was a wonderful wife, mom, and Mimi. She is survived by her daughter, Robyn Simonton Drost; her son, Frank Hamilton Simonton III; her grandchildren, William Drost, Mairi Simonton, Matthew Drost, and Erin Simonton; her son-in-law, Jonathan Drost; her daughter-in-law, Colleen Simonton; and a wide circle of extended family and friends. She will be deeply missed, but we know she has been reunited with her best friend and husband in heaven.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Kingwood, 5520 Kingwood Dr., Kingwood, TX 77345 on Tuesday January 6, 2026 at 10:00 AM.