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Carrie Gagliardi Obituary

Former Resident of Berkeley Carolyn (Carrie) Gagliardi died on Friday, October 31 in Fort Bragg, California with her partner Julie and dear friend Esmé at her side. Carrie was born November 14, 1955 in Brooklyn, New York. Carrie is survived by her partner of 18 years, Julie Apostolu of Fort Bragg; dear friend Esmé Moreira of New Zealand and Fort Bragg, her parents Martin and Louise Gagliardi and her brother Mark Gagliardi and his family of New York, brother Joe Gagliardi and his family of Georgia, her aunt Marie Rust of Florida; and many other cousins, aunts, uncles and friends near and far. Carrie's vision was about keeping disabled people in life, community and living at home. Despite whatever level of disability, every single person is a giving and viable part of society, family, and friends. Arrangements are being handled by Chapel by the Sea in Fort Bragg. No services are planned, please honor Carrie's life daily by expanding your own vision of the world. Memorial contributions to the Mendocino Coast Hospital Critical Care Nurses 700 River Drive, Fort Bragg, California 95437 mcdh.org or the Mendocino Coast Humane Society 19692 Summers Lane, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 mendo- cinohumane.org. Please visit Carrie's memorial page on Legacy.com Carrie, it has been a joy and an honor to love you and care for you. You live forever in my heart.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Bay Area News Group publication on Nov. 4, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Carrie Gagliardi

Sponsored by Julie Apostolu.

Not sure what to say?





marie rust

November 9, 2019

Miss you You are always in my thoughts Happy Birthday Aunt marie

November 14, 2014

you would be 59 today. Sending you love and missing you daily.

Marie Rust

November 15, 2013

Happy birthday. Pray for you. You are in my thoughts always love aunt Marie

November 14, 2013

thinking of you daily and especially today Carrie. Happy Birthday...loving you forever.

November 17, 2012

another birthdday but this one you celebrate with your mother. We all miss you.I thought about you on my trip to Cuba. You understood the revolution. it is fantastoc
love aunt marie

November 14, 2012

Thinking of you along with so many today, your birthday. We had Garlic Clams the way you taught me. missing you forever.

Joan Illardo

November 13, 2012

Gag, the planet is less since you left. I remember when we were just teens. You lived such an important life, but to me, you'll always be the city kid who moved upstate and accepted and loved me for who I was. I loved you too – always.

You and (my) Albert shared one thing besides my love – you ended your lives in wheelchairs. I hope you are now both dancing unburdened in the stars.

October 31, 2012

four years have passed and it seems like yesterday. Loving and missing you. Thank you for never really leaving me, I feel you every day in all I do. xoxo

Joe

August 7, 2012

Carrie, Hoping you've met up with Mom by now - she promised Dad & I that she would tell you how much we love and miss you, as well as giving you our kisses. Please keep an eye on Mom, she left us earlier than the Dr.s' said, so she may have a hard time the first few days.
Love & miss ya,
Joey

Julie

July 14, 2012

22 years ago I met you. And you are still surrounding me with your spirit. xoxo

LOUISE & MARTY GAGLIARDI

December 25, 2011

MERRY CHRISTMAS CARRIE
LOVE YOU ALLWAYS
MOM, DAD

Lonnie Mathieson

July 17, 2011

Carrie, I'll always remember the day, as the woman of the house, you invited me in. Thank you for making room for me in your generous heart.

December 25, 2009

Merry Christmas dearest Carrie.

November 26, 2009

Dearest Carrie, thinking of you today, Thanksgiving, and grateful for the amazing lessons I learned in our years together. I remember them daily. xoxo

LOUISE & MARTY GAGLIARDI

October 31, 2009

OCTOBER 31, 2009
TO OUR PRECIOUS DAUGHTER "CAROLYN" ON YOUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY IN HEAVEN. A PLACE YOU SO RIGHTFULLY EARNED.
YOU ARE ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS,THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
LOVING AND MISSING YOU OUR "BEAUTIFUL ONE", UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN.
LOVE YOU ALWAYS,
MOM, DAD AND "THE BRO'S".

julie apostolu

January 1, 2009

My Dearest Carrie,
2008 Was not a bad year because you died, it was a good year because you lived.
Now surrounded by your light, I try to be brave and look forward to the new year. The future. And the changes and adventures they will bring.
Loving you forever,
Julie

Esmé Moreira

December 26, 2008

Carrie we hope you're enjoying Christmas wherever you are. We miss you especially at this time. We love you.
Esmé

julie apostolu

December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas Carrie- you are with us at this special time of year- and always....

Peter Glusker, MD Mara Thomas

November 24, 2008

We were privileged to come to know Carrie and Julie a few short years ago, and more recently Esme. The more we saw, the more we admired of this incredible duo (now trio)....such caring, such energy, such courqge and such spirit.

Ann Beth Priceman

November 22, 2008

Carrie, I am still missing you, and I always will. I was always impressed by your attitude and your will to survive. I know you are rabble rousing on the other side. until we meet again...A.B.

Nirmala Varmha

November 18, 2008

Julie,

While I never knew Carrie persomnally, I feel as though I know her from your comments and all the wonderful photos I have seen. She was a wonderful person and will be missed by all who have "met" her in any way at all. God bless you both.
Love,
Nirmala

Ariel Greiner

November 17, 2008

Carrie has a loving place in many important landmark memories of my life. She was there when my little sister was born (and took me to ice cream), she attended my countless school plays, my high school graduation.. She was always there with a hug and her good company.
I have yet to meet another soul that is as kind, patient, caring and SPUNKY as Carrie.
I hope for nothing but peace and joy to her wonderful spirit.

Margie Moore

November 17, 2008

I will miss you with all my  heart. I enjoyed getting to know carrie at Redwood Coast Senior Center. I was the activity director for one year. Carrie was a very special person who contributed so much to help people with disabilities. Iam thankful for her  life. Margie Moore

Phyllis Marquart

November 16, 2008

It has been a pleasure to get to know Carrie through the participation of Julie in our MSPartners group. Carrie and the nurturing relationship in their home will continue to inspire all of us.

Jim Cassimus

November 15, 2008

Carrie was a complex person, varying from jovial to strong disability rights advocate, from loving/caring to jokester, but mostly just a wonderful human being. She is missed by those of us left behind as her journal continues elsewhere.
To Julie and Esme', your loss is shared; much love to you both.

Blue Walcer

November 14, 2008

Happy Birthday Carrie....

Carol Welch

November 10, 2008

Carrie was an extraordinary woman who changed the lives of those she touched. I know I am one. Her life was, and continues to be, an inspiration to us all. No matter what life handed her she remained a positive and loving person. She will be sorely missed.

Linda Jupiter

November 10, 2008

Carrie was blessed with a powerful life force and a devoted loving partner and family. My thoughts are with Julie and Esmé and all those who miss Carrie.

Tami Tal

November 10, 2008

I'm a stranger, from Israel, who just happened to come across Carrie's passing away announcement on Sappho's list. I can see Carrie was a special person, and so are her friends. I wish I had known her.

Barbara Lerner (Dinnerstein)

November 9, 2008

I knew Carrie back in the 1980's through the Disabled Lesbian Community in San Francisco. Both of us being strong willed butch lesbians from NY, we had our moments, but it always ended with a smile and a laugh. She left me with a lasting sense of respect for who I am and lighted the match that taught me how to standing up for myself concerning my disability. The laughs we shared and the work that was done will live forever. Rest peacefully Carrie, I am sure you are organizing wherever you are and making sure that things are accessible for all.

Betsy Best-Martini

November 9, 2008

So many memories and wonderful times with Carrie and Julie. Carrie was warm and mischevious :) She was a joy and inspiration to me. Her spirit, love of life and resiliency in the face of many challenges never kept her from following her dreams. And Julie, you are the love of her life and the soul mate who helped her live her dreams. You are the hero and she loved you for each moment together. We send our love to you and thank you for keeping in touch with great words and photos.
Much love, Betsy and John Martini

Paulla DeMello

November 8, 2008

When I saw "Julie" on my cell phone during the week, I thought it odd, but did not immediately have alarms going off! The news of Carrie leaving us and moving on came as a huge surprise. Hadn't I just heard Carrie's voice a few days before when I had called to catch up on the many activities at the mini farm? Carrie, Julie and I have been friends for 16 years. My fondest memories are of swimming at the Natatorium in Pt. Richmond, many walks in many parks with lots of great conversations, fabulous dinners prepared by all at the Berkeley apartment where Carrie would be coming in from meetings and sharing the work she was involved in and what was necessary to do next. I waved goodbye when she left on her Cuban adventures. She left us with trepidation, but showed us that if you make up your mind to do something, it can and will be accomplished! She was such an inspiration to us all. Carrie was an exceptional woman; a real fighter, bringing about change and a new awareness to many in her short time here. You will be missed. You are in my heart, and I am joyous to have been a part of your life these many years.

Barri Boone

November 8, 2008

I knew Carrie in Berkeley. I lived close to her and one day they were asphaulting on my street, causing me to flee due to my chemical sensitivities. I phoned her about something else, and mentioned the asphault. She invited me and my partner to spend the night. After I stopped choking, we talked all night -- about when she lived in the art commune in SF, about her relationship with Julie, and all the amusing things about Berkeley. Getting to know Carrie was a delight!

Suzi & Marianne

November 8, 2008

Dear Carrie
You have been an inspiration to everyone. We will miss you. Thanks for the times we did share. We will always keep you in our hearts.

margot white

November 7, 2008

although I have not met Carrie,
from all accounts from Esme, she
was an exceptional woman, who
achieved much during her life.
I send my deep condolences to
Julie and Esme,Margot White.

Gerrda Focardi

November 7, 2008

Julie and Carrie as a couple had a rare and deep bond,that never wavered in the 18 years I watched in awe.As an individual Carrie was a soul who lived fully in the time she had,and had a patient and uncomplaining attitude that one can only hope to strive for.I will miss you Carrie,and will always hear your understated"Oh well..."to help remind me of what is important.

Lindsay Wansbury

November 7, 2008

Although I only met Carrie two times, I feel that I knew more of her through Julie. My work of the last 30 years has been about relationship and never have I heard about a more powerful soul connection than Carrie and Julie. They represent to me higher possibilities for the human heart and conciousness. Thank you both for your example.
Love,
Lindsay

Blue Walcer

November 7, 2008

I was involved with Carrie in the early 80's. We traveled to L.A. once to visit my parents. My very elderly flirtatious father said something inappropriately suggestive to Carrie. Carrie responded with her usual irreverence and charm, , "Ernie," (his name was Aaron) "you're really cute! I would love to go out with you!" Needless to say, this rendered my otherwise loquacious father utterly speechless....
Though I haven't been in touch with Carrie in many years, I share this loss and wish her family and friends peace and comfort....
Love always,
-Blue

Dennis Pasquini

November 6, 2008

Hi Julie and Esme, I send my condolences and my deepest sympathies to both of you. Like I said on the phone Carrie always talked to me and that meant so much to me. She was a good friend and a wonderful person.
Love Dennis

Carnella Washington

November 6, 2008

Carrie,
You will surely be missed. I had the pleasure of meeting you when I became the Assisted Living Director at the Berkshire An Assisted Living Community in Berkeley Ca. You were a support system to me. The Both of us had Multiple Sclerosis, I complained all the time, but you did not. I now have Seizures and it's because of your inspirational personality I CAN'T COMPLAIN.
LIVING FREE,
CARNELLA WASHINGTON

March Hajre-Chapman

November 6, 2008

Carrie, you will always be a fond part of my memories. Your positive attitude, your smile and laugh, and your caring heart will never be forgotten.
I love you!

Robin Stephens

November 6, 2008

I tried to find you when my partner and I lived in Berkeley in 2006-2007...but was unable to find you ... I enjoyed our meeting in the mid-80s and visiting you and using your pad in the early 90s... Thanks for your openness, playfulness and mentoring... I will miss you as I miss all who leave the world...

Laura Rifkin

November 6, 2008

Carrie,

You meant so much to all of us and to me when I was a young disabled lesbian. You held the torch for the movement.

You are featured in Cathy Cade's iconic photo and our logo on www.fabledasp.com
where we were documenting 40 years of disabled lesbian history in the Bay Area.

You were at the forefront and live on always in our hearts. We were hoping to come and see you and interview you.

love to all of your loved ones and thanks for making a space for us.

Laura Rifkin
Lead Project Director
Fabulous/Activist Bay Area Lesbians with Disabilities: A Storytelling Project
www.fabledasp.com

Kimberly Kinser

November 6, 2008

Carrie and Julie worked with me at the Berkshire retirement community in Berkeley. While Julie directed the activities, Carrie could be found chatting with the residents, listening to their stories and being the ear that so many elders need. I am happy that I had the chance to know her. We all followed the Oakland A's and shared lots of fond memories of the ballpark. I have recently realized that I have never heard Carrie complain about anything ever. That is an amazing fact. She was a blessing. Love Kimberly

Harriet and Nancy Gleeson/Chinn

November 6, 2008

Carrie, we will miss you! It was really special to have you and your family in our home in the past years. You have been such an example of the power of change in our world and the will to overcome so many obstacles. You will be missed but never, never forgotten.

Charles west

November 6, 2008

Carrie,
How could I ever thank you for all the things you did for me and opened my eyes. Because of your causes the world has changed so much for the better. The work that you did here at UACH will keep it strong forever. You touched my life in a way that will never be forgotten.
PEACE AND LOVE ALWAYS
CHARLES
UNIVERSITY AVENUE COOPERATIVE HOMES, BERKELEY,CA

Giovanna Capone

November 5, 2008

Carrie was briefly a member of B.A.S.I.L., Bay Area Sicilian and Italian Lesbians, a social and cultural group of 20 years existence.
I remember meeting her because she came to a few of our dinners and pot lucks, I would say in the 1990's. Our group is still going. We'll say a prayer for Carrie. I remember her being a very intelligent and mellow person.

Giovanna Capone
BASIL founder

Johanna Jensen

November 5, 2008

Carrie, Julie and Esme are an inspiration about what family means and what love can do. I only hope when my time comes, I'm loved as much and cared for so well.

Esmé Moreira

November 4, 2008

Thank you Carrie for being such an inspiration over the last four years, since I first had the privilege of being part of yours and Julie's family. You will live in our hearts always and your work for disabled people will be a shining light for many to follow. Love, Esmé

marie rust

November 4, 2008

To my wonderful niece
You will be always in my heart. I celebrate your life and all that you accomplished. My love to Julie who was your partner in life.

Cat Ondriezek

November 4, 2008

Thank you for being such a monument for disabled lesbians to start speaking out. Your work will live on!

Julie Apostolu

November 4, 2008

Thank you for visiting Carrie's memorial site. I invite you to share your memories and thoughts about this amazing woman.
Please email me for links to other obituaries and tributes. Come find me on facebook.
I love you Carrie...

Brian Patch

November 4, 2008

Thank you for blessing us with your heart and presence, and for making the world a better place, Carrie.
Right on, sister! - Love,

Carrie and Gaia staring at Julie- their favorite place to be...

November 4, 2008

Carrie ready for Esmé's party-8/17/08

November 4, 2008

Carrie and Julie 10/26/08

November 4, 2008

Jocelyn Graef

November 4, 2008

Carrie, I will hear your laughter forever in my heart. You are one of the "good" ones, always fighting for the right stuff. Keep it up, kiddo.

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