Carole Jean McDonnell
(nee Walsh) On September 21, 2022 of Washington Twp. Age 84. Beloved wife of the late James J. Devoted mother of Mark. W. (Donna), Timothy P. Sr. (Karen), Jill M. and the late Margaret “Maggie” McDonnell. Loving grandmother of Timothy Jr., Casey, Maggie, Shane, and Mary Kate. Proud great-grandmother of Jack, Bennett, Scarlett, and Violet. Dear sister of the late Peggy Anne Lange. Loved by nieces and nephews.
Born in Philadelphia PA on January 5, 1938, and weighing just 4 lbs. 1 oz. little Carole left a huge impact on everyone she met
Carole inherited her impeccable style from her mother Margaret Mae and her incredible work ethic from her loving father John. Carole and her sister Peggy shared a love for dance, and they performed all over the city as children. She would later be the favorite aunt to all her nieces and nephews.
At just 19 years old, she met and married the love of her life and husband of 49 years James McDonnell. The couple had four beautiful children, Mark (Donna), Timothy (Karen), Jill M. and her angel Maggie. Carole’s boys enjoyed hockey games while her girls enjoyed dance recitals. They all spent magical summers on the beach in Brigantine.
A naturally gifted gymnast and dancer from a very young age Carole turned that talent into a dance business that she poured her heart into. She was adored by her students who called her Miss Carole.
After retiring from the dance business, Carole moved to New Jersey where she enjoyed spending summers in her swimming pool and cooking elaborate meals for her beloved grandchildren. Timothy (Julie), Casey (Bobby), Maggie (Michael), Shane and Marykate
After the tragic loss of her youngest daughter Maggie, Carole authored Maggie’s Law. She worked closely with the National Sleep Foundation, and spoke both nationally and internationally on the dangers of drowsy driving
Carole’s phone never stopped ringing. She was a fiercely loyal friend who was always there with sound advice and a fantastic sense of humor. All her friends became family.
In Carole’s later life she adopted the name Gigi. She loved visits and photo updates from her four gorgeous great grandchildren, Jack, Bennett, Scarlett, and Violet. She enjoyed sending them stickers, cards, and small gifts throughout the year.
Without Carole, food won’t taste quite as good, sparkles won’t shine quite as bright, and a piece of our hearts will be missing forever.
Family and friends are invited to attend her viewing Monday 9:30-11:00 AM at the Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Rd., Washington Twp. Funeral service 11:00 AM. Interment, Hillcrest Memorial Park, Washington Twp.
“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”