Toni Kathrin Stern

Born in Hollywood to Harry and Audrey, emigres from British Columbia, Toni grew up in the Fairfax district of Los Angeles after WWII, where there were few children to play with. Both parents were often working, so Toni would regularly take herself down to the Flying Saucer Café for a hamburger lunch with fries and a Cherry Coke. 

In the 60s, with the arrival of the cultural revolution and its burgeoning music scene, the Whiskey and the Troubadour became her frequent hangouts. Described as a true bohemian, tall and thin, Toni was pursued by more than a few men, but she lived alone on her own terms and took guff from no one.

Her stints at a bank, the phone company and as a waitress lasted no more than a week and she wondered where to fit in. So, she headed off to Paris to study art and enrolled in painting classes. Afternoons were spent in cafes reading the philosophers. It was at this point that Toni began to explore writing and the expression of her soul. When a friend commented, “You’re taking art classes, but spend your free time writing,” Toni took that to heart. Once back in the states, a door opened and Toni began to write with Carole King as lyricist. That collaboration produced many hit songs, including “It’s Too Late,” “Where You Lead,” “It’s Going to Take Some Time,” “Sweet Seasons” and “No Sad Song.” Later, two of these songs were in the Broadway hit and soundtrack album Beautiful. “Where You Lead” is also the theme song for the acclaimed television series The Gilmore Girls.

With her first check of consequence Toni bought an Arabian horse named Blue, fulfilling a childhood dream, and leading to a lifetime of trail riding throughout the Western States.

Still, something was missing. She was looking for love and opportunity once again intervened. At Santa Barbara’s East Beach, in the ocean beyond the breakers while Toni swam one July day, a young man popped up out of the water and they began to talk. Toni and Jerry had found the love that would sustain them for the next 49 years.

Seeking quieter and more nurturing environs, they soon moved to Santa Barbara and eventually Santa Ynez with their two horses and ever-present dogs. Over three decades in Santa Ynez, Toni would pursue her love for riding and tennis, and their quiet, isolated home in the foothills set the stage for her daily creative expression. Many years were spent in front of an easel painting away and she was always writing — for herself and her friends. She handmade several books as gifts, whimsical and fun, and appreciated by young and old alike. More recently, always with introspection and insight, she self-published four books of poetry which are available online.

Toni Stern is survived by two horses, Purey and Airplane, her canine companion Vera and family including: niece Teena and husband Laren; nephew Barney and wife Francine; great niece Lauren and husband Jake; great niece Devon and husband Claudio; two great-great nieces, Charlie and Skye; and her godchild Tallulah. And of course, her loving and devoted husband, Jerry Rounds.

For those who wish to recognize the memory of Toni: be thoughtful, grateful, creative and, most importantly, kind.