Carol Jean Smith 12/25/1939 - 9/17/2025

Carol Jean Smith passed away suddenly on September 17, 2025. Born an only child on Christmas Day, 1939, in Northern Kentucky to Ralph and Lorraine Brown (Daffin). Within a few weeks, the young family relocated to Cincinnati, which is why many people never realized Carol was actually born a Kentuckian. In the years following her father's return from WWII, the family eventually settled in Columbus, Ohio, where she graduated from South High School and met the love of her life, Fred Smith. In 1958, Carol and Fred relocated to the San Jose area, where they were married on Nov 1, 1958, and began building a full and happy life together for more than 60 years, until Fred's passing in 2019. In addition to Fred, Carol was also predeceased by her parents, and twin sons who died shortly after birth in 1959. She leaves behind her children Debbie Brown (Lou), Mark Smith (Veronica), Kim Barr (Ron), and Stephanie Roberts (Mark); nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law Bob and Pam Smith, and many nieces and nephews. She will also be fondly remembered by her cousins, whom she loved as though they were sisters; and always in the heart of her three friends of over 50 years, Betty, Julie and Karla. &emsp;&emsp;&emsp;&emsp; Lovingly known as "Granny" to all, Carol's warmth, humor, and welcoming spirit made everyone feel like family. She enjoyed a 40-year career with Hewlett- Packard, working in the South Bay and Roseville before telecommuting as she and Fred traveled the country. Carol was active in her community, spending years bowling in local leagues and volunteering in Moreland Little League and Bobby Sox Softball. In their later years, she and Fred explored the country with friends in their fifth wheel, often stopping near the southern border to enjoy local markets—and a margarita or two, because "it's five o'clock somewhere." Carol's greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren and great- grandchildren, with whom she created cherished memories that will live on for generations. After retiring from travel, Carol and Fred lived in Colorado, then Lincoln, California. Following Fred's passing, she moved to Weslaco, Texas, where she shared life with close friends and continued visiting family often. Carol lived her life with joy, adventure, and kindness —forever seeing the world through her "rose-colored glasses." A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, @ 11:00 am, at Thrive Chapel, 8211 Sierra College Blvd Roseville, CA 95661, Lunch to follow. Please obtain more details, and RSVP for the reception, by visiting the website withjoy.com/carol-smith . You may also email questions to Debbie Brown at serviceforcarol@gmail.com