Carol Ann Stahl

Carol Ann Stahl, 81, passed away on February 21, 2026. Carol was born on August 28, 1944, in Van Wert, Ohio, to James and Geraldine Terry. She was a thoughtful presence throughout her life, and her steady care for others will be remembered with gratitude and respect. Carol resided in Rancho Santa Margarita, California.

Carol attended Van Wert High School and graduated in 1962. During high school, she was a member of the National Honor Society. She was also involved in Future Teachers of America, Senior “Y” Teens, and Pep Club—early reflections of a life marked by participation, commitment, and quiet leadership.

On September 26, 1965, Carol married Joseph Calvin Stahl in Lima, Ohio. Together, they built a family that brought her deep pride and joy, including her two children, son John and daughter Sara.

In 1977, she and her beloved husband, Joseph, fulfilled his dream of moving to Alaska. There, they began one of the most meaningful chapters of their lives — embracing the beauty of the Alaska through camping, fishing, and a deep appreciation for the magnificent landscape they called home. Alaska was more than a place to live; it was a place where memories were made.

Following the tragic passing of her husband, Joseph, Carol’s strength and resilience carried her forward. She remained in Alaska until 1998, sustained by the love of her family, her treasured friends, and her devoted Bahá’í community. During those years, she was especially proud to support her son John, his wife Geok Ai, and their children as they fulfilled their dream of Bahá’í pioneering in Taiwan — a testament to the family’s shared commitment to faith and service.

Carol later returned to Indiana to be near her sister Diane and niece Elizabeth and family, where she also lovingly cared for her own mother. In 2018, she moved to Southern California to live close to her daughter Sara, her husband Dan, their three children, and her two great-grandchildren. She loves the sunshine and natural beauty of California and cherished the precious time spent surrounded by those she loved most.

Carol will be remembered for her quiet strength, steadfast faith, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and the lives she touched with kindness and grace.

Carol is survived by her son John, daughter Sara, sister Diane, and her six grandchildren: Joseph, James, Ryan, Alex, Kyle, and Brendan, as well as three great-grandchildren: Noelle, Hudson, and Gianna.

A Committal Service will be held at El Toro Memorial Park, 25752 Trabuco Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630, on February 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.