Carol went to Heaven on July 2, 2023. Her husband, Jim, preceded her in death by one week. When Carol was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and the symptoms became more challenging, Jim devoted himself to her care. The week he placed Carol in a care facility, he was diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer.

Carol graduated from Whitworth College, where she majored in music, specializing in voice, piano, and organ. After college, she moved to Fresno, California and began attending First Presbyterian Church where she met the “Hot Rod King.” Jim and Carol were married on August 17, 1974. They were Christ followers and throughout their lives, used their gifts in service to the Lord Jesus.

Carol particularly enjoyed singing in opera productions and directing the church’s Bell Choir. Jim seldom missed one of Carol’s performances. Carol also taught voice in their home. She was a member of the prestigious Fresno Musical Club and the California Opera Association. She also earned a master’s degree in music at Fresno State College. 

This past October 7^th, a Celebration of Life service honored Jim’s and Carol’s lives. Mehlet Gebrehiwet shared the significance of Carol in her life. She met Carol as she wandered their neighborhood. Carol became her second mother. She gave her vocal lessons. She gave her kindness and love. She attended parent teacher conferences alongside Mehlet’s mother. She attended each one of Mehlet’s recitals, plays, sports games. She took her to museums. Every Tuesday evening, for ten years, Jim and Carol invited Mehlet and her brother, Adnna, to their home for dinner and tutoring. From age eight to eleven, Mehlet went from struggling with reading to reading at college level. Adnna became a history buff.

Carol and Jim were loved by Mehlet and Adnna. Carol and Jim were a special couple who were enjoyed by all who knew them.