Carole Leeper Hess

Carole Leeper Hess, age 80, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and friends while under hospice care. Born on March 19, 1944, in Philadelphia, PA, Carole was the eldest child of James Widman Leeper and Elaine “Walthea” Whitaker. She embraced life with determination, generosity, and a vibrant spirit which touched the lives of many. Her strength and resilience were evident in every role, whether as a devoted mother, a hardworking professional, or a dedicated community volunteer.

In the early 1970’s, Carole made Fort Lauderdale her home, where she built a fulfilling life rooted in service and connection. She managed several 7-11 stores with her characteristic independence and work ethic, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike. Beyond her career, Carole found joy in giving back -- coaching young athletes and running the concession stand for the Southwest Saints, for example. Her leadership extended to The American Legion, Post 180’s La Femme’s, where she proudly served as Madam Presidente, championing the values of camaraderie and support for veterans and their families.

Carole’s outgoing and protective nature made her more than just a mother of two and grandmother of three—she was “Mom” and “Nana” to many others. She had a way of encouraging people, always ready with a kind word, a listening ear, or a hearty laugh. Her home was a welcoming place where friends and family gathered, knowing they would find her love and support. She lived life with a fierce sense of self-sufficiency, never hesitating to stand up for those she cared about.

She is survived by her loving children, Ann Woodruff Arnold and James Woodruff, and her cherished grandchildren, James Woodruff, Jr., Joy Arnold, and Sarah Woodruff. Carole also leaves behind her youngest brother, Tommy McCabe, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Karl Hess, and her siblings, Barbara Leeper Carlisle, Michael Leeper, Daniel McCabe, and Patrick McCabe, as well as a niece, Tammy Carlisle. Though she has departed this world, her legacy of compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A Remembrance will be held in her honor at The American Legion, Post 180, located at 1280 SW 44th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (Phoenix, Arizona) or Camp Boggy Creek would add to Carole’s legacy of helping these two organizations (see links below to donate). In addition, her family invites you to share a cherished photo and/or memory of Carole by emailing [email protected], or share them at the Remembrance. For additional information, please email [email protected].

Carole’s light may no longer shine among us, but her love and impact will never fade.

1 Corinthians 15:42–44 NLT -- It is the same way with the resurrection of the dead. Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies.

Carole’s favorite charities:

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: https://www.cff.org/give-monthly?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjws-S-BhD2ARIsALssG0ZS2a_XsaNobsDE3f7TS3mFyMWEh5k0Y630n1MVNMNmxg_WrH0ehRsaAgN9EALw_wcB

Camp Boggy Creek:https://www.boggycreek.org