Maryrose Caroline Beeler

Carol was a proud college graduate, earning a degree in Applied Science for Accounting and becoming the first in her family to do so—an accomplishment that reflected her determination, intelligence, and strong work ethic. She devoted 29 years of service as a financial analyst with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), retiring at the senior-level grade of GS13. During her career, she was named Employee of the Year and received special recognition from Congressman John Yarmuth for her outstanding service. She was also honored to be commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel. She enjoyed the art of public speaking, and was a proud member of Toastmasters.

Carol shared 53 years of marriage with her soulmate and “angel,” Tom Beeler, a partnership rooted in love, devotion, and companionship. Carol and Tom were avid travelers, visiting 49 states, 22 countries, including six cruises, collecting memories wherever they went.

Despite her deafness, she did not allow it to stop her, she persevered. Carol had a deep love for genealogy and devoted years to carefully researching her family history, preserving stories and connections for generations to come. A talented cake decorator, she poured her creativity and love into the many beautiful wedding cakes she made for her children, each one a true labor of the heart. Carol delighted in crafting of all kinds, especially creating flower arrangements, and she had a remarkable appreciation for plants and flowers—able to name them with ease and admiration. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, from browsing stores to celebrating a good bargain, and she never missed the chance to use her Kohl’s cash before it expired.

She is survived by her five children: Allen Slaughter (Dee), Deborah Lewis, Chris Slaughter, Gina Carnell (Tommy), and Lori Harvey (Billy); nine grandchildren: Josh Slaughter, Nikki Barnett, Missy Agundez, Kelly Baldwin, Cassie Slaughter, Carissa Slaughter, Mat Carnell, William Lewis, and Christopher Slaughter and 14 great-grandchildren.

Her Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, January 24th, at 3pm at the Heady-Hardy Funeral Home, 7710 Dixie Highway, with cremation to follow. Visitation will be from 9:30am until the time of service.