Carol Hill, our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, in Centralia, Washington, at the age of 90. She was born and raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and carried the spirit of New England with her throughout her life.
A faithful woman of remarkable determination and talent, Carol was a skilled seamstress who lovingly made all of her children’s school clothes. In a true testament to her determination, she drove a school bus to put herself through college, earning her Associate of Arts degree before embarking on a 30-year career with the Washington State Department of Transportation. After retiring, she moved back to Chehalis to be closer to her family, a constant source of joy in her life.
Carol was a devoted member of St. Francis Mission in Toledo and St. Joseph Church in Chehalis, where she faithfully served as a lector and volunteered whenever she was needed. Her interests were varied and many; she loved reading, traveling, playing bridge, attending cribbage tournaments with her loving partner, Jim, and her exercise classes at Thorbeckes. She was also a member of the Chehalis Eagles.
She centered her life around her family. She enjoyed her grandchildren’s sporting events, never missing a single game. Her favorite moments were family gatherings, where she was surrounded by the love of multiple generations. Her greatest happiness came from being surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Carol will be remembered for her unwavering support, gentle strength and the countless small acts of love.
Carol’s legacy lives on through her six children: Ellen (Mike) Barnett, Laura (Ian) Coyle, Rick (Sue) Hill, Stephanie (Jeff) LeDuc, Lisa (Wade) Lininger and Paula (Mike) Lydon. She was a proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her loving sister, Janet (Clif), and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Lorraine; loving partner, Jim; and two cherished grandsons, Justin and Kyle.
A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at St. Francis Mission in Toledo. A reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Carol Hill to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
