This memorial website was created in memory of our beloved Carol, 70 years old, born on August 22, 1948 and passed away on October 12, 2018.
Carol's life was taken all too soon. She passed away from injuries sustained from a tragic accident while she was in Washington, D.C. She and her loving husband, Bruce, were visiting their daughters and family who live in the District.
This memorial is a place of remembrance for Carol's loving light, generosity, and warmth. Carol's family is so appreciative of the love and support that they are receiving from her friends and loved ones. They are also thankful for the stories that are being shared with them of Carol's life and moments of grace.
A celebration of Carol’s life will be held in Chapel Hill, N.C, on Saturday, October 27th. We know that she loved and was loved by so many people in and outside of the Chapel Hill area, many of whom may not be able to make it to the service, but will be with us in spirit.
Please use this space to share your loving memories of Carol and the incredible life that she lived. We will miss her inspiring and giving spirit and her warmth, and hope this page can help to continue her story in some way.
CAROL'S OBITUARY, published October 17, 2018
Written by Meredith Tomason
Carol Joan Tomason (Age 70) passed away from injuries sustained during a tragic accident in Washington, D.C. on the morning of October 12th.Carol and her husband Bruce, residents of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, were visiting their children and grandchildren, who live in the District.
Carol was born in Neptune, New Jersey to Ruth and Otto Schneider on August 22, 1948. She shared 46 loving years with her one true love, best friend, and husband, Bruce Tomason.The couple started a family in Summit, New Jersey, and also spent time living in London, England. Carol was the proud and loving mother to Audrey Tomason Ward, and Meredith Tomason, and was thrilled to become a mother-in-law to Audrey’s husband Sean Ward. Carol also leaves behind two granddaughters, and enjoyed all of the fun that came with being their ‘Grammy’.
A life long educator, Carol received her Bachelors Degree from Montclair State University and both her Masters Degree and Educational Specialist in Learning Disabilities Degree from Rutgers University Graduate School of Education.She began her teaching career as an English and ESL teacher at Park Junior High School in Scotch Plains, New Jersey.
Carol was an active and passionate advocate with many educational non-profits and schools over her career including in New Jersey, at the Summit Child Care Center, Kent Place School, and Solomon Schechter Day School of Essex & Union; in London, at the American School in London; and most recently in North Carolina, as the President of The Learning Trail, a non-profit supporting the educational and social services needs of children from low-income families in the Chapel Hill area.
She enjoyed traveling with her family, and was passionate about gardening, baking, playing golf, and spending time with her family and friends at the family’s home in Martha’s Vineyard.
Carol’s effervescence, warmth, and genuine joy for giving to others are irreplaceable. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, and in honor of Carol’s giving spirit, contributions may be given to the organization closest to Carol’s heart, The Learning Trail, P.O. Box 3061 Chapel Hill, NC 27515 (http://www.thelearningtrail.org/). Services will be held in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
As an outgrowth of this tragedy, please join Carol’s family in supporting the efforts of Vision Zero D.C. (http://www.dcvisionzero.com/)
Tributes
Leave a tributeLeave a Tribute
I met Carol through my work as a volunteer for The Learning Trail. As a former educator, I was totally impressed by Carol, her passion, and her commitment and belief in setting the highest educational standards for the families and children living at Nature Trail. Always challenging us to be better and setting the bar high for excellence, we strived to help the children we served. Carol's energy, passion and love will be missed by all who knew her. She left a legacy and lasting imprint on The Learning Trail and all who knew her.
Nancy Leroy
Carol had a “joie de vivre” and an upbeat way about her that simply made one smile and want to be with her. She had a passion for life and was a truly thoughtful friend. Professionally, Carol was incredibly highly regarded as a learning specialist during her years in Summit, and I so respect all that she did in the Chapel Hill area with her endeavor to help young people through The Learning Trail.
Carol, you will be so missed, and your example in helping others will not be forgotten. I am proud to have been a friend of yours and will forever remember many special times together that we shared