Carole Ann Colby

Carole Ann Colby (Bender) a lifelong resident of East Hartford, CT was born in Hartford, CT on October 30, 1941. She passed away on March 11, 2012 after a long illness surrounded by her loving and grateful family and friends. She will be in our memories and hearts forever. Carole was pre-deseased by her parents Russell Bender and Florence Bender Malena.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 42 years Billy Lee Colby. She was the mother of Henry Edwards and his wife Lauren of Ellington, Russell Edwards and his wife Kerin of Ellington, Melissa Risley and her husband Robert of Milton, VT

Stephanie Dodge and her husband Robert of East Hartford, Claudette Nolting and her husband James of East Hartford,

her sister of Sandra Pandolfi and her husband Thomas of Woodstock. She wa also the loving grandmother to Patrick, Lauren and Leigh Risley, Morgan Colby, MacKenzie Dodge, Megan and Justin Edwards, Lindsay Edwards, Madison and Austin Nolting, an Aunt to Matthew Pandolfi of Bolton, and his wife Julia and their son Brayden, Ian Pandolfi of Boston and her very special aunt Claire Proia of East Hartford, and dear friend to Laurie Beley, Jan Connelly, Elaine Nackowski, Colleen Olbert and Alvie Spurr who have been by her side throughout her illness. A very special thank you for the wonderful care she received from Nursing Service, especially her aid Yaneth Claros who provided Carole with comfort and care for many years. We would also like to recognize the doctors of the Hartford Medical Group and Connecticut Hospice nurse Julie Oulette.

Carole was a lifelong resident of East Hartford and a graduate of East Hartford High School.

For over 25 years she enjoyed painting, gardening and ceramics having several of her

pieces on display at Connecticut’s Old State House in Hartford. All will be treasured by her family. She was an avid reader, only slowing down when her eyesight failed but then she discovered the Kindle. She was thrilled with the ability to read pages in large fonts and listen to audio books. Spending time at the beach or a night at the casino made for a perfect day.

Husband, children, grandchildren and extended family were the center of her life. Christmas, Easter, holiday and birthdays were enjoyed at their home. Caretaker of her mother, father and aunts, Carole felt the need to make everyone comfortable. We take solice in knowing that she found peace and comfort at the end of her life and is now with The Lord.

For many years, Carole and Bill made donations to St. Jude’s Children Hospital and in lieu of

flowers, we ask you to make a donation in Carole’s name.

Visitation hours will be held Wednesday, March 14, 2012 from 4-7pm at the Benjamin J. Callahan Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Ave., East Hartford. A Celebration of her life will take place on Thursday, March 15, 2012 at 1:00pm in St. Christopher Church, 538 Brewer St., East Hartford. Friends are asked to gather at the church. Burial will be private. For directions, to extend an online condolence and to view her detailed obituary, please visit www.callahanfuneral.com