Carol Ann Parker, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on Sept. 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut on the Fourth of July, Carol came into the world a firecracker, a fitting beginning for a woman who lived her life with a spirited, independent, and unforgettable personality. She was raised in Glastonbury, Connecticut, and later moved to Maine, where she lived with her children.

Carol was a graduate of Wheelock College and earned her master’s degree in literacy from University of Maine. She devoted many years to a career in education, sharing her creativity, encouragement, and love of learning with generations of students. Her teaching career took her to the communities of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts; Wiscasset, Maine; and Marlborough, Meriden, and Cromwell, Connecticut.

Beyond the classroom, Carol pursued the many creative passions that brought her joy. She was a talented singer, songwriter, pianist, and writer. A published author of three books, including two children’s books, she fulfilled a lifelong dream in 2020 with the publication of her first novel, “The Fish Dress.” Writing was an important part of who Carol was, and her books, songs, and stories will continue to carry her creativity forward.

Carol lived a life filled with stories and adventures. Among her many memorable experiences was attending Woodstock in 1969, an adventure that reflected her free spirit and independent nature.

Carol loved her family fiercely and cherished the people she welcomed into her life. She will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, wife, friend, teacher, writer, and musician. Her warmth, humor, individuality, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Carol was predeceased by her parents, Ruth Morris Walsh and Richard T. Walsh; her brother, James Richie Walsh; and her beloved son, Gregory Jerome Parker Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Pena (Parker); her son-in-law, Miguel Pena; her grandchildren, Gabriella Taylor, Edward Nelson, and Jose Pena; her brother, Richard T. Walsh Jr. of East Hampton, Connecticut and his wife, Christine Walsh; her sister, Cynthia Snow of Middlefield, Connecticut and her husband, Brad Snow; and her sister, Nancy Bromley of Occum, Connecticut. She also leaves behind beloved nieces and nephews, extended family, dear friends, and members of the writing community.

At the family’s wishes, burial will be privately held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol’s memory to Today I Matter, an organization dedicated to reducing the shame and stigma surrounding mental health and addiction through education, advocacy, and the sharing of personal stories. Carol’s beloved son, Gregory Parker Jr., is among those memorialized by the organization. Donations may be made online at todayimatter.org by selecting “How Can I Help,” or by mail to Today I Matter, PO Box 164, Ellington, CT 06029.