

Carol LaRoue Fernald, 91, of Orlando, Florida, passed away peacefully in her home on October 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 8, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Samuel and June LaRoue.
Carol’s life was a testament to quiet strength and unwavering devotion to family ties. As the sister to Bob and Sam LaRoue—both of whom preceded her in death—Carol grew up sharing the simple joys and enduring bonds of family. She carried a resilient spirit that guided her through every chapter of her remarkable journey.
Carol’s greatest adventure unfolded when she married LT(JG) Lloyd W. Fernald Jr., a career naval officer whose service led them on a life of shared travels and steadfast partnership. She embraced her role as a devoted wife with grace and enthusiasm, turning each new horizon into a haven of warmth and stability.
Carol was the proud mother of two children, Mark and Melissa, whom she raised with boundless encouragement, wisdom, and the kind of love that turns ordinary moments into cherished memories.
Her joy knew no bounds when it came to her grandchildren, on whom she doted endlessly—showering them with affection, and stories that sparked their imaginations, always with a twinkle in her eye that said they were her greatest delight.
A trailblazer in caregiving, Carol earned her degree as a Registered Nurse (RN) from St Scholastica where she served as class president. Carol devoted many fulfilling years to surgical nursing, where her skilled hands and calm presence offered solace and healing to patients in their hour of need. Later, she transitioned into private practice with Nancy Sapp and Associates specializing in case work and rehabilitation, where she empowered individuals to rebuild their lives, rediscover their strengths, and step forward with renewed purpose. To colleagues and those she served, Carol was more than a professional; she was a beacon of reliability, always ready with a listening ear, a reassuring smile, or a practical tip drawn from her vast experience.
Carol’s legacy endures in the hearts she mended and the family she nurtured. Not overly verbose, she was profoundly dedicated and loyal, showing her deep love through tireless actions—efforts endlessly spent on supporting her family, from the quiet routines of daily life to the unyielding strength she offered in their times of greatest need.
Carol is survived by her beloved husband of many decades, Dr. Lloyd W. Fernald Jr.; her son, Mark; her daughter, Melissa, son in law, JJ,
and her cherished grandchildren, Grant, Madeline, Trent, Bajian and Nicholas who were the light of her life. She was predeceased by her parents, Cdr. Samuel and June LaRoue (U.S. Coast Guard) and her brothers, Bob and Sam.
A memorial service for Carol will be held Friday, November 21, 10:30am at Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 5300 Old Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, FL 32792. A reception will follow immediately after in the adjacent fellowship hall.
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