

Carol Ann Kavanaugh, age 93, passed away on February 19, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on December 24, 1932, in Indianapolis to Vernon and Ruby Johannes, Carol lived a long and fulfilling life rooted in faith and family.
Carol was preceded in death by her husband Francis; her son Daniel; her parents Vernon and Ruby Johannes; her brother Larry Johannes; her daughter-in-law Carol Kavanaugh; and her granddaughter Casey Kavanaugh. Carol married the love of her life, Francis Howard Kavanaugh, in1952, with whom she shared 67 years of marriage, and together they built a large and loving family.
She is survived by her children: Michael Kavanaugh (Jane), Patrick Kavanaugh, Cindy Battiato (Nick), Jean Kavanaugh (Jeffrey), Theresa Charles (Chip), Mary Helm (Mark), and Kathleen Ganka (Pete), and her beloved sister-in-law, Sister Timothy Kavanaugh. She was also blessed with 20 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 23 nieces and nephews who brought immense joy to her life.
Carol was a 1949 graduate of Emmerich Manual High School where she excelled in her studies. She was a devoted member of several Catholic parishes through the years, including Holy Name Catholic Church, Nativity Catholic Church, and most recently St. Barnabas Catholic Church. Carol worked at various places in her life, including Indiana Gear Works, Franklin Central High School, and Glenroy Construction Company.
Known for her fierce devotion to family and zest for life, Carol had an extraordinary ability to bring laughter to those around her. She was an exceptional cook, and she also found joy in sewing, painting, ceramics, bowling, fishing, and growing a bountiful
garden. Her home was filled with warmth, creativity, great food, and lots of laughter.
A passionate sports fan, Carol never missed a game played by the Colts or the Pacers. Her enthusiasm for her teams was infectious and reflected the energy she brought to all aspects of life.
Carol’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and dedication to those she held dear. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, and she will be dearly missed by family and friends.
Visitation will be Tuesday, February 24, from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Little & Sons Funeral Home located at 4901 E. Stop 11 Road, Indianapolis, IN 46237. The funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, February 25, at 10:30 A.M. at St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 8300 Rahke Road, Indianapolis, IN 46217. A graveside service at Calvary Cemetery will follow Mass, and then a mercy meal provided by St
Barnabas Catholic Church.
Carol’s family would like to thank the staff of Greenwood Meadows for their loving support of her health rehabilitation efforts.
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