Carole Lee Carruthers, born Carole Lee Robinson on June 16, 1935, in Washburn, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, in Fresno, California, at the age of 90.
Carole’s life was a testament to her adventurous spirit and deep love for her family and friends. Defying the conventions of her generation, she bravely moved alone from the comforts of her small hometown in Illinois to Southern California. There, she met and married Don, with whom she had three daughters.
She worked for the police department and later for the City of Anaheim, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the city’s current rehabilitation program. After Don’s passing, Carole embraced a new chapter of life with her second husband, Tom, and together they owned and operated Hi Desert RV in Apple Valley—another adventure she welcomed with open arms.
Carole was preceded in death by her first husband and father of her children, Donald Montgomery; her brothers Bob Robinson and Jim Robinson; and her second husband, Thomas Carruthers.
She is survived by her three daughters: Diane Montgomery, Karen Montgomery, and Gina Wilson (husband Perry); her beloved grandchildren: Donald Adkins, Jessica Lopes (husband Sean), and Melanie Gould; and three beautiful great-grandchildren: Bostyn Adkins, Layla Lopes, and Landon Lopes.
Carole’s warm spirit touched all who knew her. She was admired for her wisdom, generosity, kindness, and sense of humor. Her talent shone through in her beautiful paintings, quilting and her vibrant gardens—each a reflection of the love and light she carried within.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, located at 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720, on August 22, 2025, starting at 10:00 am.
A Graveside Service will follow at Belmont Memorial Park, located at 201 N. Teilman Ave., Fresno, CA 93722 on August 22, 2025, beginning at 11:30 am. All family and friends are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Hinds Hospice in her memory.
Carole's family would be honored by your presence at a reception immediately following the graveside service at Solitary Cellars Winery, located at 14439 N. Friant Road, Friant, California 93626 United States.
Carole leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. She will be deeply missed by her family and all those whose lives she touched.
