Sharlene Carroll

Sharlene Carroll passed peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her family, August 2nd at the age of 86. Beloved, dedicated wife of John Walker Carroll for 52 years and now reunited; loving mother of Tara Carroll McKee (Patrick McKee), Laura Carroll, Sara Stauder (Dan Stauder), and John Hartman Carroll (Renee Carroll). She was affectionately known as “Ria” by her 8 adoring grandchildren, Maura McKee, Carey Stauder Shuler (Ryan Shuler), Calais, Danny (Bailey Smith), and Sally Stauder, and Whitney, Wesleigh, and Walker Carroll.

She was born on her family farm in Antwerp, Ohio on November 22, 1934 where she resided until her move to Ft. Wayne where she became the first female drive-up teller at Ft. Wayne National Bank. Her natural beauty and savvy charm attracted the interest of one young, debonair bank client by the name of John Walker Carroll. Sharlene and John were married shortly after their first date and resided in Northeast Ft. Wayne. They took tremendous pride in raising their four children here and developed a large cadre of friendships. Both were an essential part of their lives together. They were active in bridge, bowling, golf teams and the Indiana Republican Party. Also, Sharlene was quite active in the Ft. Wayne Follies and had roles in local plays including “Pal Joey”.

In later years, they built a lovely, always welcoming home in Southwest Ft. Wayne. Sharlene was a doyenne of home entertaining here, and her guests were dazzled with her delectable culinary spreads, free flowing libations, and fun filled parties. She also loved to entertain her family and many friends in her Ft. Myers Beach, Florida home. Sharlene was a passionate gardener as well and her creative floral gardens were featured in local garden walks.

Sharlene’s life mission was the never-ending nurturing of her family and grandchildren. She will be forever remembered for her infectious laugh, fashionable flair, and sunset “cheers”. The fun and love that she spread will be her legacy, and, through her cherished family will live on for generations to come.

A private “Celebration of Life” is planned for Sharlene at D.O. McComb and Sons (Covington Knolls). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fort Wayne Civic Theatre https://www.fwcivic.org/donate