Carol Audrey McEndree

Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, Carol was the cherished daughter of Erwin Carl Christian Grunst and Gertrude Louise Zielke Grunst. She grew up alongside her brother, Nathaniel Mark Grunst.

Carol’s life was defined by service, learning, and deep faith. She earned her teaching certificate from Concordia Teacher’s College in River Forest, Illinois, and later received a Bachelor of Science in Education from North Texas State University. Over a dedicated 30-year career, she shaped young minds as a primary grade teacher in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Dallas, and Irving, Texas—leaving a lasting impact on countless children and families.

As a devoted member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Irving, Texas, Carol gave generously of her time and talents, volunteering in numerous capacities and being a constant, positive presence in her church community. Faith was the touchstone of her life—she was a passionate Lutheran, declaring she would "always be a Lutheran at heart." Carol was deeply committed to Biblical tithing and supported charities close to her heart, including Worship Anew, Lutheran Indian Ministries, and Disabled Veterans.

Carol had a zest for life’s simple pleasures. She delighted in gardening, arts and crafts, and reading, and shared memorable travels with her husband and her brother’s family, especially to Albuquerque. Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She was an unwaveringly devoted matriarch, supporting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with encouragement, wisdom, and boundless love. In her own words to them: “Always remember that I constantly held my family in my heart with the deepest of love. Though we didn’t always agree, I know you loved me, too. You, my two children and your families have been my greatest blessings.”

Carol is survived by her children: Kathleen Susan McEndree Preece and her husband, James, and Mark James McEndree and his wife, Becky; grandchildren: Nikolas Preece and his wife, Abby, Beth McEndree Dickerson and her husband, Matt, Sara McEndree Weaver and her husband, Michael, and Adam McEndree; great-grandchildren: Edwin, Sarah, and Ivy Preece; Daniel and Caleb Dickerson; and James, Charlie, and Patrick Weaver. She is also lovingly remembered by her extended family: Marty Grunst and his wife, Karen, and their sons, Henry, and Ethan; and Cynthia Grunst Bednarz and her husband, Greg, and their daughters, Ellie and Daphne.

Carol was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, James Arthur McEndree Jr.; her grandson, Jeremy James Preece; her brother, Nathaniel Grunst; and her sister-in-law, Cornelia Grunst.

Those who knew Carol remember her as a determined and strong-willed woman—always striving for the best for her family and giving generously to support their dreams. Friends recall her as a “treasure,” a “cool mom,” and “such a sweet, wonderful lady,” always present at church and in the community. Her hospice nurses fondly called her “Christmas Carol,” a name she received with a bright and beaming smile.

A private graveside service for immediate family will be held on June 20, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to Worship Anew, Lutheran Indian Ministries, Katy Hospice, or a charity of your choice, honoring Carol’s lifelong commitment to giving and caring.

Carol Audrey Grunst McEndree leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service. She will be deeply missed and forever held in our