With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Carol Ellen (Gardner) Townsend, a beloved wife, mother, nana, sister, and friend to many. Carol left us peacefully on August 27, 2026, after a courageous battle with multiple illnesses. She was 76 years old.
Born on October 15, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, Carol was the cherished daughter of William Herschel Gardner of Turnerville, AL and Rebecca Arlayne Underwood from Russellville, AL, who predeceased her.
Carol's journey through life was marked by her marriage to her devoted husband, Michael Joe Townsend. Together, they shared 54 wonderful years of love and partnership, a testament to their enduring bond. Their love story began at the Burger Hut in Prichard, Alabama, where Carol worked as a waitress and met the love of her life, Mike.
A graduate of Robertsdale High School, Carol's career was as vibrant and varied as the life she led. She worked in several of Mobile's local restaurants, including the Waffle House in Chickasaw and Tommie's Terminal, where she brought joy to her regular customers. Carol's warmth and humor were infectious, endearing her to secretaries, cab drivers, truckers, lawyers, judges, and dock workers alike. Later, she worked at Gayfers, McRae's, and Belk until her retirement, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and hard work.
Carol has been a devoted member of Shadowlawn Baptist Church for over 30 years, where her faith and fellowship were essential to her life. She enjoyed gathering with friends for games, food, and fun, always bringing laughter and joy to those around her. Carol's honesty and straightforwardness were well-known; she was never shy about expressing her thoughts, whether good or bad.
Carol is survived by her loving husband, Michael; their son Shane (Hyde) Townsend and his wife Tessa; and her adored granddaughter Whitney Townsend. She also leaves behind her sister Shirley Williamson, her Uncle Donald Gardner, and numerous brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends who will miss her dearly.
A service to honor and celebrate Carol's life will be held on September 3rd, 2026, at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, located at 9700 Celeste Road, Saraland, AL 36571. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Carol's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart.
Pallbearers: Shane (Hyde) Townsend, Jason Skelton, Brian Skelton, Wendell Brown, Bradley Wendt, Ryan Wendt, Quenton Williams, Jeremy Bridges.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to all the family members and friends who supported Carol over the last ten months. Your prayers, phone calls, and meals have been a blessing and are greatly appreciated.
Carol Ellen Townsend will be remembered for her love, laughter, and the permanent mark she left on everyone she met. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
