Carol Christine Wittenbraker

Carol Christine Wittenbraker, formerly of Newburgh, Indiana passed away Tuesday, December 23 in Houston, Texas. She was a resident at the Hallmark Senior Living Community in Houston. She was born January 1, 1935 in Germantown Ohio to the late Robert Lee Gray and Donna Christine (Gunder) Gray.

After starting her family with her beloved husband John, she enrolled at the University of Evansville as an adult student, earning her Bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Carol taught 5th and 6th grade first at Oakdale Elementary School in Boonville, Indiana and then at Newburgh Elementary School in Newburgh Indiana where in over 24 years she influenced hundreds of students.

Carol was known for her innovative approach to teaching fifth grade and her belief that young students were capable of serious academic work. She taught about Greek mythology and the Latin roots of English words. She designed engaging research projects—such as her well-remembered “Super Sleuth” assignment—that taught students how to research, organize, and write term papers complete with citations and bibliographies. Through her creativity, collaboration, and high expectations, Carol was not only preparing her students for college, but for a lifelong love of learning.

Along with her husband John, she remained active in the Warrick County Retired Teachers’ Association. She was also an enthusiastic member of various groups focused on local history, social dancing and culture. She had a keen sense for fashion and was beloved for her tea parties.

Carol was a graduate of Bosse High School and a member of Peace Lutheran Church and Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Evansville and Faith Lutheran Church in Houston.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Wittenbraker, Sr. and her sister, Gwen Spencer. Carol is survived by her children and their spouses, Dr. John Wittenbraker, Jr. (son) and Dr. Kathleen Harring, Paul Wittenbraker (son) and Brenda Diamon Wittenbraker, and Elaine (daughter) and Awny Gabriel, and her granddaughter, Carolyn Wittenbraker and her husband Nick Balsamo, granddaughter Jasmine Gabriel and great granddaughter Ruby Wittenbraker Balsamo.

A celebration of Carol’s life will be held this Spring where family and friends can gather together in the Newburgh area.

Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderNewburghChapel.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Carol’s name to Warrick Literacy & Educational Connections (https://www.warrickliteracy.org).