I worked for Neale and knew Carole thru him. what a dear person and a
 truly generous and considerate Spirit. so very sorry to hear of her passing.
 she will be remembered by me for a very long time..  Bill Griffin

Carol, a glamorous lady, and I knew each other for 33 years since the 1980 DSI. I have always been looking forward to seeing her in the national conference every year and delightfully surprised to see her at times in regional conferences. It is extremely sad to hear about her passing in such a sudden state.  Her image and voice will be remembered forever by the members of DSI community.  May her body and soul rest in peace and with love, and be blessed by Heavenly God. We love you and miss you very much Carol!
Your longtime friend, Eldon Y. Li

It has always been my dream that i see u, Carol, when i enroll at DSI, one day. But for some twist of fate, you are no more. However, i strongly believe that your hard work has paid off and those at the helm of affairs will surely live up to nothing short of our expectation. God keep you.
with love,
Anthony
VALLEY VIEW UNIVERSITY
INSTITUTE OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
GHANA

I am so sorry to hear of Carol's passing.  I met Carol when she first came to Georgia State/Decision Sciences (then called Quantitative Methods).  I left GSU in 1981 and although I have seen or spoken to Carol only a few times in the passing years I've always remembered her.  She was always very kind to me and I really appreciated it.  I will cherish my many fond memories of her.

Carol was a shining star.  She shined and made DSI shine.  Her love of DSI and devotion was at the highest level.  She epitomized DSI by her hard work and dedication.  I was fortunate enough to work with her for many years when I served as a member of the board, or as the program chair, or other capacities.  This year, I was looking forward to our late night phone conversations.  She and I developed the same working habit of working late at night.  It was not meant to be.  I do miss her and I am sure she is in Heaven smiling upon us and watching over us to make sure DSI is on the path of success.

We miss you, Carol.

I had the opportunity to work with Carol at DSI for six years.  During my time there, I gained a lot of exposure and knowledge from Carol, specifically how to be a better writer.  Carol was definitely a unique person with lots of class and impeccable taste.   Although we didn't chat much after I left DSI, Carol always remained in my thoughts because she was just that unforgettable.

I wish continued prayers and comforting thoughts to the family in this time of sorrow.

Rest in Peace, Carol…

Carol Latta had the ability to make every person she encountered feel as though they were the most important person in her life.  She did this with the variety of people, backgrounds and opinions found in the membership of DSI.  All the while she kept up her  professional approach to the changes that DSI went through during her tenure.  

Thank you Carol for being so patient with us and touching us with your love.  We will miss you.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ms. Carol was a very sweet person. She always tried her best to the end to help someone when he asked her for help. We will miss her very much.

My thoughts and prayers are with Carol's family, friends and co-workers.  Carol will be missed.

Carol would often tell me to take a loaf of bread with me every time I traveled, in order to leave a trail of crumbs to find my way back home. Wise words from a wise lady. Over the years that I've known Carol, we always ended a conversation in laughter - one of her signature qualities. She was unique, savvy, warm, and generous with her friendship. She was also an incredible sharp business woman and always had a funny story to share. She will be missed.

I was sadden to hear about Carol's passing.  She gave me my first job at the Research Group about 35 years ago.  Prayers to her family.

Debbie Estes Sanders

I knew Carol from Fletcher Class of'66. She was one of the nicest girls I met. Thoughts and prayers to her family and loved ones.

I knew Carol in high school. We dated from time to time but she was mostly just a good friend. I liked the whole Latta family, her parents and two sisters. We kept in touch somewhat over the years. I know she was devoted to her job and loved Atlanta. A real shock and a great loss.

I had the great pleasure to work with Carol a bit on DSI committees, and of course to see her at every meeting I attended. To me, Carol was the personification of gracious Southern hospitality. She turned professional meetings into something of a "family" event. I will miss her deeply.

"What do you do when your dance partner lands on a piano in front of you?"

This is part of one of the most memorable stories Carol shared with me.  This part takes the story to a whole new level and candidly reveals her enviable sense of humor and her desire to keep the Home Office of the Decision Sciences Institute a balanced workplace.

I have worked with Carol in several capacities at DSI for almost 13 years.  I used to tease Carol sometimes, calling her "DSI Incarnate", due to her relentless dedication to the Institute.

I have learned so very much from her over the years.  But what I will remember most, second only to her stories, is the unique level of engagement and interaction that she had with people.  She had a win-win solution for everything and everybody.

There are no words in the English language to describe the size of the hole that she has left behind at DSI.  That she will be sorely missed is a gross understatement.

So, what did Carol do when her dance partner landed on a piano?

"I just kept on dancing!"

Diane, Ray and Kathi,  My prayers go out to you.  She was indeed  a wonderful person.  You can be sure that she's with your mom, dad and brother and is rejoicing in her new life.
Marilyn Nice

Carol has been the unwavering corner stone of the Institute throughout her tenure as the Executive Director. Many officers, editors, and committee chairs have come and gone but Carol was always the steady rudder for the Institute. I do remember and have always appreciated her support when I served as President during 1983-84. AIDS began to be a global health issue then and I was determined to change our organization's name from AIDS to something else. There were strong objections from some members that “AIDS is a temporary disease that people are overly excited about.” We proposed two new names: Decision Sciences Institute (DSI) and International Institute for Decision Sciences (IIDS). I was for IIDS but several Board members thought we were too ahead of time with “International.” We settled with DSI and I am thankful that we departed from AIDS then. During the whole process of this name change, Carol was always supportive of our efforts as she was looking far into the future. I have always appreciated Carol's quiet professionalism throughout her service. We will miss her terribly but at the same time we treasure the memories of her dedicated service to and love for the Institute. 
Sang M. Lee, A former president and a Fellow of DSI

I was Carol's assistant for only 2 years, but I feel like we have been friends forever.  We bonded from day 1.  Oh how she wore me out all those late nights and weekends on the phone getting ready for an Annual Meeting or a Board meeting.  I find myself looking over at my phone expecting her to call me – again.  She was old school, but that was okay.  She and I had a special bond.  We would fight like sisters then make up just the same.  She did not even mind when I fussed at her (which was often); she would say, "I love when you yell at me."  She always had a DSI story of some meeting from (pick any year) and we would laugh.  She never forgot a name, face, event, date, time or place, and after almost one year of my own brother's passing, she remembered the exact day and time and exactly what I said, when I called her with that news.  She wanted to comfort me, when it must have reminded her of the pain she still felt from her own brother's sudden death as a teenager.  She was selfless and always put DSI first.  

I am deeply saddened and feel lost now.  The Home Office is still in shock.  There is a big void where she used to be.  To Carol, we are trying to carry the torch, as we know that is what you would want.  Rest my friend - rest in peace.  I love and miss you.

Exquisite and memorable -- these words sum up Carol Latta. She brought these qualities to bear with effortless grace. And DSI was certainly the main benefactor of her gifts during her 36 years of service, with over two decades as executive director. The high point of each year was the DSI annual meeting, when Carol was on call for every waking moment of four days, yet her infectious smile and attention to detail never wavered.

What made Carol such an effective leader was, first, her intelligence to quickly grasp situations and find a process, usually involving collaboration, to arrive at an answer; and, two, her emotional IQ, which was off the charts. She worked with hundreds of DSI presidents and officers, understanding what made each tick and allowing each to flourish in his/her role. She always did this behind the scenes so they received all the credit. 

Exquisite and memorable, Carol leaves a lasting legacy of professionalism, collegiality and friendships that make DSI what it is today: an association with an international reputation whose members rate the annual meetings highly because of the opportunity to meet friends and colleagues.  Through her consummate skills and generous spirit, Carol Latta has made an indelible mark on higher education.

Carol was a consummate professional. She was gracious and meticulous. I will cherish my memory of her.

Carol was always willing to help and guide no matter what the issue was.  Her help added days and weeks to my life.

Kalyan Singhal

I am deeply saddened to hear we have lost our lovely Carol. I worked with Carol in numerous capacities for DSI since 1983. Carol's global DSI family will forever remember her genuine love and compassion for every DSI member, as well as for our families. Carol would alway ask me how my parents were doing. We love you Carol and we will miss you.

Carol was a warm, caring, and hard working colleague/leader who I feel blessed to have known throughout her tenure at the Decision Sciences Institue.  She will be missed; however, my memories of interacting with her will be cherished.

As a strong supporter of Alpha Iota Delta, I want to express on behalf of the honor society membership our sadness in loosing our friend.

Gregory W. Ulferts, University of Detroit Mercy
Executive Director, Alpha Iota Delta.

I knew Carol from the days when she started working at DSI.  She was always cheerful and friendly, efficient and thoughtful.  She will be missed.

She was a very lovely person. I knew her from Fletcher

I knew Carol from Fletcher class of '66. I remember her as a kind and gentle person, may she rest in peace.

What a sweet , kind and gentle soul. Always smiling and always friendly to all she met. A blessing in my life to have known her.

I loved Carol all my life. We used to walk to Atlantic Beach Elementary together. We graduated high school together, and although we did not stay on touch during our adult lives, she was always in my heart. Peace and light, Carol.

Caorl was such a sweet person who was always there to help me in my various roles at DSI. I miss here greatly.

I worked with Carol for most of her 36 years with the Institute. She saved my bacon more times than I care to fess up to. Just a wonderful woman and colleague. She's fondly remembered.

Ira HOROWITZ (Gainesville, FL)

Carol was a classmate from Fletcher High School, Class of 1966......she was the sweetest and most friendly person in out class and I will always remember her kindness.  She was who I had always aspired to.  She shall be missed dearly by so many of our clasmates....may you rest in peace dear Carol.

Carol Latta was the heart and soul of the Decision Sciences Institute.  For 36 years she was devoted to its success and the well being of its members.  I was fortunate to have been able to work with her over these many years.  She was an extremely talented and professional person who also was a very compassionate individual.  I will always cherish my time spent with her at national and international meetings  and in working with her on the DSI Board.  My  wife, Mylla, and I are greatly saddened by her passing and will miss her greatly.  What a great woman !

I met Carol at the first DSI I attended-in San Fran in 1982. She remembered me every year for the next 30 and always treated me like I was very special. I can't imagine anyone more always charming and nice than Carol.  
Dick Hercher

Carol - a most loving, caring, embracing person.  Eminently huggable!  Illustrates what relationship building means to people.  Difficult to think of DSI without her.  Good-bye and a million thanks!

I have worked with Carol since 1995 and I will always think of her and all the great things she did for me.  We will miss you Carol.

Carol will certainly be missed. She was  a wonderful and sweet person. Her work with DS( was exemplary. For me it was a pleasure having known her. 
Luis Eduardo Rivera-Solis
Dowling College
Oakdale, NY

I knew Carol since my doctoral student days over two decades ago, and worked closely with her on numerous committees, board meetings, and as a program chair.  She always had a warm smile and a hug, not only for me but for countless other friends at DSI who were like a family to her.  She will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.

We just saw the notice on the DSI Website of the passing of Carol, and I must tell you I am writing this with more than a few tears flowing from my eyes. We worked with Carol in 2008 when we performed for the DSI Welcome Reception, in Baltimore. Ever since Carol has been one of our great supporters, but more than that, she was one of our most prolific clients. I never knew when Carol would call as we planned the event, 2:00AM, 3:00AM, and no, that's not a misprint. It was perfectly fine as we are in "Show Business", but most calls at that hour are typically from "Sound" people, "Lighting" people, or "Performers". Clients generally call at 10:00AM, when I try to pretend I'm awake having finished at 6:00AM. Carol, well she, she was a "Professional!".

I truly enjoyed my many conversations with Carol. She was different than any other client, and I've been doing this for thirty years. She stood out from all the rest. Honestly, I'm not sure the woman ever slept. She was a ball of energy that this ball of energy is hard pressed to recall having seen. I can tell you that I am going to miss Carol, and I know the loss I feel with even just the amount of interaction we have had with her, pales in comparison to the loss felt by her family, and those of you that worked with her on a daily basis. Please know though, she did have that much impact on us, for we have stopped in our tracks here today, and we will always remember Carol.

Sincerely,

       John W. McGrath, Director / Producer

The Alexandria Royal Fyfes, Drums & Trumpets International
The Olde Seafaring Mariners of Baltimore
The Amber Waves of Baltimore Show!

For me, as well as for many other people, DSI and Carol Latta are, and will be, synonymous. She will be greatly missed.

I have worked for Carol for 3 years now and I have always enjoyed her stories, she had a story for every occasion. She was so dedicated to DSI and she will be missed by all who knew her.

I worked with Carol through DSI over the last 15 years. She was truly passionate about DSI!  I am glad I had the chance to know Carol and will miss her kindness and encouragement.

I was so sorry to hear about Carol.  She was a beautiful girl, and I enjoyed knowing her at Wesleyan.

Carolyn Garrard(Athens, Ga.)

I remember Carol from rides in my car to and from Wesleyan -- she had a sweet, imperturbable demeanor, but oh that laugh.  I can still hear Carol's giggle.  We were in touch in Atlanta in the 70's, then I moved and lost touch for a long time, but reconnected a couple of years ago.  She was the same lovely sweet Carol.  The death of friends from the past spawns long forgotten  memories. . .oh what fun we had.  How serendipitous that this particular group of women were brought together in 1966 for four fantastic years.  We are one lucky group.  It's like losing a part of us when someone  leaves.

What a wonderful, tender picture of Carol and Nancy and Jenny at the last reunion.  That is the way I will remember Carol - always the beautiful smile and warmth directed right at whoever she was looking at or talking with.  I'm so sorry I did not make that reunion to see you 3 and more.
Kathi and family, I hope God's grace and the caring of all these many friends of Carol, bring you some comfort and peace.    Janet Jones Cagle(Mocksville, NC)

My thoughts are with Carol's family and her beloved niece, Nancy, that Carol asked me to get a T-shirt for her from Nancy, France with the “I love Nancy” printed on it. Carol, I was planning to honor your 36 years of service to the DSI in Bali, Indonesia. My heart is broken that now we will honor your memory and we will not have you with us.  Miss you very much. Minoo

For all the good times and counsel . . . my life has been enriched by knowing and working with you.

I really don't know where to start ....There is so much that I could say but that would require lots more space ... What I will say is that Carol gave me my start .... I worked for Carol as her assistant for 14 years and during those 14 years, I have had experiences that have help me become the person that I am today and for that I am grateful.  Thanks Carol.

Deborah Atwater (formerly Deborah Miller-Boykin)

I met Carol through my work with the Decision Sciences Institute as the editor of the Decision Sciences Journal of Innovative Education.  She was the heart and soul of the institute and worked very hard to ensure that the institute functions well.  When I visited her at Atlanta to talk to her about the journal, she was kind and helpful; thought of many ways to improve the journal.  I had excellent interaction with her throughout the four-year tenure and can't think of a better person to work with.  It is a joy and pleasure to have known her.  Hard to believe that she is no more.

My prayers and thoughts are with Carol's family and all of us who loved her as we each try to imagine this world without ever again seeing her beautiful face and hearing her laugh. At the last Wesleyan reunion I attended with Latta, we promised to keep in touch more often. I wish this promise going forward to be Carol's legacy; we hold each other closer, hug harder, and cherish friends who can never be replaced. 
The picture I have attached is of Jenny Kopp Curl, Carol, and me the last time we were together. This precious moment as we laughed and took silly pictures and promised to see each other again soon, will be a cherished memory. Love, Nancy

OBITUARY

Carol Jean Latta

May 30, 1948 – June 3, 2013

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