Carol A Dove

Carol Ann Proctor Dove, of Nashua, New Hampshire, formerly of Springfield, Illinois, passed into the arms of Jesus on September 28, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Carol was born in Mansfield, Ohio August 2, 1939, and was the oldest daughter of Alice Bell Dickson and Charles Fredrick Proctor. She was high school sweethearts with her husband, James T. Dove, MD. Together they shared 50 inspiring years of marriage full of travel adventure, precious family time, and lots of love.

In her younger years Carol was an exceptional administrative assistant for the Dunham & Luttman Group, but her most cherished role was that of stay-at-home mom to her two children, Laura and Steven. She also treasured her time as Grandma to her six beloved grandchildren.

Carol had a very generous heart and loved to give back to her community and anyone who was in need, no matter what that need was. She spent countless hours volunteering her time and especially enjoyed her role in the Parent Help Line in Springfield and at the Central Illinois Food Bank, specifically with the Childhood hunger program. She was actively involved in PEO, Chapter EQ, Kings Daughters Group- Mary Lawrence Circle, the Sunnyside Literary Group, was former President of the Sangamon County Medical Society Alliance, and numerous Church Boards, including serving as a Deacon for many years at Springfield’s 1st Presbyterian Church. She also enjoyed a good game of Bridge with a wonderful group of ladies who met regularly.

Carol’s faith was very important to her, she held a deep spiritual belief, was a faithful prayer warrior, and enjoyed serving her Lord in all aspects of the Church as well as her community. She was delighted to pass this devotion on to so many in her circle and family.

In her later years as Carol’s health began to decline, she continued with the lessons and giving back, even though her communication was minimal. She taught us how to sit quietly and be in the moment. She taught us how to love and be present for each other. She gave us the gift of time and the ability to see the preciousness in the small moments together. She reminded us of what it was to be a good listener, and that silence could also be a form of communication. She taught us to slow down, to take time to relax, to just be with her no matter what the day held. Her smile continued to light up the room, even in her last days. And the joy that emanated from her was infectious. We marveled at some miraculous moments of clarity, wit, and pure love, before her passing- a gift that will continue to give back as we grieve her loss from this life.

She is predeceased by her husband James, her parents, her sister Sally Lou Proctor, her brother Thomas Proctor, her in-laws, Ronald, Lowyane, and Richard Dove, and her nephew Todd Lehnhart.

She is survived by her daughter and family, Laura & Matthew Therrien, Noah, Adam, and Ainsley; her son and family, Steven & Paulette Dove, Connor, Sierra, and Madison; her brother and wife, James & Julie Proctor; her sister and family Mary & Yogi Cockerill, Sara White, Chris Cockerill, Tim Cockerill; her sister-in law and family, Charlotte Proctor, Tom Proctor, and Ruth Robey; and her niece and nephew and families Richard & Patty Dove, Sheryl Lehnhart, Amanda & James Boyd, Zachary Lehnhart, and Chelsea Lehnhart; numerous cousins, as well as her dear friend Mary Ninker.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the loving care that was provided to Carol by the front-line staff at Courville at Nashua. Their compassion and devotion is unmatched and is deeply appreciated.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that if you are moved and inspired by Carol and Jim’s generosity, please donate in her name to your local food bank, or a local “End 68 Hours of Hunger” program. The family will host a Celebration of Life in the Spring of 2027.