Carolena L Samuel

She dedicated her life to education as a third-grade teacher, adjunct professor, and school improvement coach. She was a patient, kind, and deeply compassionate educator who formed meaningful connections with her students and left a lasting impact on countless lives.

In retirement, she happily moved to Florida, where she formed many dear friendships and truly embraced the Floridian lifestyle, particularly her love of all things palm trees and seashells. She frequently enjoyed shopping, lunches with friends and family, walks along the beach, and sharing a glass of red wine with loved ones. She found great joy in exploring the world and took great pride in her Italian heritage. Above all, Carolena’s greatest joy and most treasured role was being “Nonnie” to her grandchildren, whom she loved and cherished.

Nonnie was vibrant in both her personality and her style and was known for her humor and lighthearted spirit. Even in the face of illness, she carried herself with remarkable strength, never complaining or allowing it to diminish her joy.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 30 years, David Samuel; her daughter, Christina Reeg, and son-in-law, Jason Reeg; and her three grandchildren, Taylor (“Precious”), Alison (“Sweetie Pie”), and Ryan (“Pumpkin”) Reeg. She is also survived by her sister, Sheila Smith, and brother-in-law, Thomas Smith as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is further survived by extended family members David R. Samuel (Tamara), Jennifer Bush (John), and grandchildren Alexander, Michaela, Sierra, and Jacob. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Sestilia Parsons, and her beloved dog, Magnum, who held a special place in her heart.

Her life was filled with color, brightness, and love, and she created that same sense of warmth for everyone around her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.