Carol Swan Middlekauff

Carol Ann Swan Middlekauff (age 91) passed away peacefully at home on June 16, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family. She is predeceased by her husband, Dr. Robert Karl Middlekauff, her parents, Mary Margaret and Carlton Walker Swan, her brother, Thomas Daniel Swan, her sister, Margaret Swan Norris, and her son, Curtis Robert Middlekauff. She is survived by her children: Sandy Skinner (Russell), Pam Pritchard (Frank), Jeff Middlekauff (Dina), eleven grandchildren: Russell Skinner (Simmons), Wade Skinner (Natalie), Jeff Skinner (Caroline), Caroline Skinner Bennett (Ben), Adams Pritchard (Sarah), Brooking Pritchard Metz (Patrick), Julie Middlekauff Bowness (Matthew), Robert Middlekauff (Jordan), Carlton Middlekauff DeLany (Jake), Bender Middlekauff (Tatum), Sam Middlekauff, and twenty four great grandchildren.

Carol was born on February 9, 1935 in Detroit, Michigan. Growing up, she was an excellent student, and a Spelling Bee Champion. She went to Eastern Michigan University, where she enjoyed sorority life and studying to become a teacher. While she was there, she met the love of her life, Bob Middlekauff. They married and moved to Philadelphia when Bob entered Temple University Medical School. She worked as secretary and personal assistant to Jim McNeil, CEO of McNeil Labs (Tylenol manufacturer). Carol and Bob remained close to the McNeils throughout their lives, as they did with many other friends they made in the different places Bob’s training took them.

During Bob’s Residency, they lived in Newport, Rhode Island, Portsmouth, Virginia, Bethesda, Maryland, Jacksonville, Florida, and Oakland, California. When Bob finished his Fellowships, they settled in Jacksonville, Florida and raised their children in this special place. Although she was busy as the mother of four active children, Carol managed to volunteer in the Jacksonville community. Some of her favorite activities were tutoring adults in the Learn To Read Program, being a docent at the Museum of Science and History (MOSH), sitting on the MOSH Board of Trustees for many years, and serving as Chairman of the Nutcracker Ballet.

Carol played left-handed tennis and golf very well, and practiced Pilates from age 80 to 90. She was an accomplished Bridge player and organized groups that lasted 45 years. She loved being a founding member of the Tale Spinners Book Club, serving as President several times in it’s 50 year history. She was also part of the Laurel Garden Circle and the Honey Bees Lunch Group.

She had a very creative side, which could be seen in the beautiful things she collected over time to decorate her home, and in the lovely needlepoint pillows she made. Carol dressed with such style that her daughters, daughter-in-law, and grand-daughters enjoyed borrowing clothes, shoes, and accessories from her. Her creativity also showed up in the kitchen. She was an exceptional cook, and she had a gift for gracious entertaining at home and at their beach house. She miraculously “fed the multitudes” when the extended family gathered at the beach.

Carol was extremely smart and well-read. She kept up with current events, especially politics and sports. The Middlekauff children and grandchildren often sought her advice and trusted her wisdom, knowing she would always keep their confidences.

Bob (Bob-o) and Carol (Mimi) created many special memories at their beach home with their children, grandchildren, and dear friends. They were also fortunate to have traveled widely with family and friends.

Carol was a wonderful wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, daughter, and sister. She was a loving and devoted caregiver to Bob through his long illness. As difficult as it was, she remarkably said that it was “ a sweet time in their lives.” Carol loved God, and Bible Studies, and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. She prayed every day for family, friends, and our country. What a blessing she was to so many. We know the Lord welcomed her home with, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!” Matthew 25:23

The Middlekauff family would like to express deep gratitude to Carol’s amazing caregivers: Kim Westberry, Fatu Johnson, Tasha Stewart, Kim Franklin, and Sheila Harrison.

The Memorial Service will be held on June 30th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church with visitation immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers and in remembrance of Carol’s life, the family asks that charitable donations be made to: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 4129 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32210.