Carol Garrard

Carol “Nana” Garrard , age 85, passed away peacefully at her home in Birmingham, Alabama, on Friday, October 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on September 24, 1940, in Alabama, she lived a life defined by strength, devotion, and an unwavering love for her family.

Carol was the cherished matriarch of a vast and loving family that spans six generations. Known affectionately as “Nana” by all who knew her, she was a woman of fiery spirit and fierce loyalty. Her home was a sanctuary where any bad day could be soothed by sinking into Nana’s couch and watching old Westerns or Law in Order (a tradition that brought comfort to many over the years).

She is survived by her devoted husband of 42 years, Victor Anthony “Vic” Garrard (lovingly known as Papa) who stood faithfully by her side throughout their journey together. Their bond was the cornerstone of a family legacy built on love, resilience, and faith.

Carols deep-rooted faith in Jesus Christ guided her life and served as a beacon for multiple generations. She fostered a walk of faith that continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.

She leaves behind a large and loving family: her brother Terry Rock; sister Diane Rock McAlpine; children Joan Pylant (Lee), John R. Bibb (Kelli), Jeannen Frachsieur, Rhonda Bradford (Alan), Danny Bibb, and Sherry Farley (Mike); grandchildren Daniel Light (Shelley), Rebecca Payne (Rodney), Jennifer Sebetich, Anthony Marks (Kelly), Amanda Trippi (Tony), Neil Frachsieur (Miranda), Austen Bibb (Amber), Tabitha Burrow, Jarrod Bibb (Erika), Kelsey England (Shane), Steven Farley, Victoria Sims (David) with children Addison & Tyler; Miranda McNeal (Tyler); along with an abundance of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, extended family members, and beloved bonus family.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents Adrea Simmons Rock and John Dewey Rock Sr.; sisters Josephine, Jane, Marie, Shirley, Ruby, Faye, and Geneva; and brother John Dewey Rock Jr.

She loved all things beautiful and poured herself wholeheartedly into caring for her children and grandchildren. She never met a stranger and welcomed everyone with open arms. Her wisdom shaped lives; her strength carried others through hardship; her love stitched together generations.

To know Carol was to love her. She was our queen bee…the heart of our hive and the legacy she leaves behind is one of enduring love and unshakable faith.

May Nana’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her and continue to guide the generations she so lovingly nurtured. A Visitation will be held on October 8, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 02:00 PM at Ridouts Trussville Chapel (1500 Gadsden Highway). A Graveside Service will be held immediately following visitation at 02:45 PM at Forest Crest Cemetery (5730 US-78).