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Carol Richards Obituary
Carol Richards (Swiedler), singer, radio and television performer, well-remembered for her duet with Bing Crosby on the hit single “Silver Bells”, died Friday in Vero Beach, Florida. She was 84.
Born on June 6, 1922, Richards won a Bob Hope talent contest in her early 20s, moved to Hollywood and made numerous TV appearances including I Love Lucy, Name That Tune, The Saturday Night Review, and variety shows hosted by Ralph Edwards, Dennis Day, Pinky Lee, Edgar Bergen, and Ezio Pinza. For four years (1953-1957), she was a regular cast member on the Bob Crosby Show. She was the movie singing voice for Vera Ellen in Call Me Madam, for Cyd Charisse in Silk Stockings, Brigadoon, Deep in my Heart, and It's Always Fair Weather, and for Betta St. John in The Robe. She worked frequently with Danny Kaye, Jerry Lewis, and Bob Hope, and sang with the Russ Morgan and Desi Arnez Bands.
In the 1960s, after moving to Chicago to raise a growing family, Richards performed at numerous club dates, and appeared frequently on Don McNeil's famous radio show, The Breakfast Club.
She was the loving mother of 15 children, 19 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Edward Swiedler.
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Memories and Condolences
for Carol Richards
Gretchen Cannon
March 12, 2022
Hi Little Mammy! I was JUST listening to Somewhere Over the Rainbow and thinking so hard about you, and a minute later I got this email. I love and miss you so much, but I KNOW you are always close by, and you are forever in my heart, always.
Katie Wagner
June 6, 2007
Grandma will always be one of the most precious people I have known in my life. Although I never experienced those “deeper” talks with her as others were able, I feel I have no regrets. She always expressed her unconditional love and I feel blessed to have known and received such love and joy. I look forward to all our future talks and only wish I could see her face as clearly as I hear her voice. If I haven’t said or expressed it much in life know, Grandma, how much I love you and now how much I miss you.
Please watch over all of us
~ Katie
Cammie
June 6, 2007
I used to visit Grandma every summer. My sister and I would go down to the beach with her and walk to get ice cream. I remember one time after the long drive down there we sat down and she made us hot pockets. She was always happy to see us, and we loved going down to visit her and Papa. We had a lot of fun. I hadn't seen her in a while when she passed away, but I'm glad I remember her when she was well. Grandma, I love you and I miss you.
Denise Frix
June 4, 2007
Self absorbed with health issues, I am late to post this. My heart broke when Carol died. A great influence to my life, she invoked confidence and strength in me when I was a young woman. She taught me how to think outside of the box. Heaven is never having a bad hair day. I was showered with love from her and her childern. Carol, I will never forget you, Love Always,
Denise Frix
Chris and Doris Crowell
June 1, 2007
Dear Ed,
It is difficult to accept, this separation of the least separable mated pair I have ever known. I can scarcely bear the idea that the long loving agony of your joint struggle toward honest intimacy and truth is at an end. No other marriage comes to mind that could match yours with Carol. You were made for each other. Her vivid beauty and intelligence and her incredible voice framed her in a kind of spiritual aura powered by the strength of her love - for you, Ed, and abundantly enough for all of your family.
You were lucky to have her for a partner, and she was equally lucky to have found the strong, brave and (dare I say?) handsome man she needed. She was a dazzling entertainer and a generous friend. She lived a life in full, and you filled it better than could any man on earth. I am sure that you two made it to that ultimate intimacy.
From two who loved her, and who continue to love you: be well.
Chris and Doris.
Scarlet Southern
June 1, 2007
It is so hard to come up with only a few words to express what Aunt Carol has meant in my life…..for I have her and Uncle Ed to thank for many of the good things that have come my way. Twenty four years ago, they discovered the real beauty of my mother and decided to introduce her to Carol's brother, Bus who instantly fell in love with Mom and wanted to, not only take care of her, but also, of her girls. Thus began our life with the Swiedler family. At age 13, even I knew that we had reached emotional "rock-bottom", but as we spent time with the Swiedlers, we were exposed to a very loving and supportive network the sort of which we had never experienced before. I was continually amazed at the unconditional love that was put into everything, from singing to talking, listening and teaching. I will always carry the memory of Carol, Bus and my mom, Betty singing "True Love", "What'll I Do", and "Always". This was a cherished ritual at almost every family gathering.
"I'll be loving you, Always
With a love that's true, Always………
Not for just an hour
Not for just a day
Not for just a year
But Always"
Irving Berlin – "Always"
Uncle Ed, know that I am thinking of you and knowing how hard it is to lose the one that has completed you, but also that I am sending out great joy and relief in knowing that you had the experience of being completed by another
and that you will carry that in your heart always.
All my love to you,
Chris and Doris Crowell
June 1, 2007
Dear Ed,
It is difficult to accept, this separation of the least separable mated pair I have ever known. I can scarcely bear the idea that the long loving agony of your joint struggle toward honest intimacy and truth is at an end. No other marriage comes to mind that could match yours with Carol. You were made for each other. Her vivid beauty and intelligence and her incredible voice framed her in a kind of spiritual aura powered by the strength of her love - for you, Ed, and abundantly enough for all of your family.
You were lucky to have her for a partner, and she was equally lucky to have found the strong, brave and (dare I say?) handsome man she needed. She was a dazzling entertainer and a generous friend. She lived a life in full, and you filled it better than could any man on earth. I am sure that you two made it to that ultimate intimacy.
From two who loved her, and who continue to love you: be well.
Chris and Doris.
Milton Thomas
May 29, 2007
You used to always tell me that you were my "Honky Mama", and you'll never know just how much of a very special "MOM" I considered you to be. I probably spoke of you as much to others as I did of my mother, as I felt as much loved by you ... a love that will stay with me for the rest of my life ... and beyond. Go with the wind, my Honky Mama, and I shall see you, again, someday. Just not today. Your incogNegro son, Milton."
Gena Freeman
May 23, 2007
We expected her to leave us. It is still difficult. I know she is free of pain now. I know she is with God, her parents, Andrew and her siblings. I know she is in a beautiful place. I also know that I can no longer hear her voice, except in my memories, or see her beautiful smile anywhere but in a photograph. I will miss her so much.
Mom was an inspiration to me. I have known her since I was 19 years
old. She helped me learn how to be a mother and a wife. She was always there when I needed to talk. She never judged, she never scolded, she just listened. She never tried to tell me how to fix my problems, but certainly helped me think through all the options I had and ALWAYS made me examine my part in whatever situation I happened to be in. She asked the right questions and never made me feel like I gave a wrong answer. She absolutely and unconditionally loved all of her children and grandchildren. That included me, even though she didn't birth me. She was a great wife and took wonderful care of her husband.
When my daughter Whitney was about 8 years old, she told her Grandma that she loved her so much because she was "a good sport and kind to children". I'd say that pretty much sums Mom up.
Mom, thanks for being a good sport, being kind to children and showing us your amazing love. Thank you for always loving me, accepting me, accepting James as your own, as well as Jamie and Summer, and just being there. I will always love you and will try to live out everything
you taught me.
Mary and Leman Mallison/Rudeseal
May 23, 2007
What wonderful parents Carol and Ed have been, to have children who love them so much. Carol exited gracefully and first, as was her wish. She did light up our lives, too, though so briefly in our garden. Her life is a challenge to all you children to continue to grow in grace and strength and to learn from her spirit of inspired nurturing.
Jean Laughlin
May 22, 2007
Mom was beautiful, talented, intelligent, and incredibly dynamic. She was loved by so many people, all over the country, and she will be missed by all. Her joie de vivre touched all who knew her. We hope that she's having a good time where she is now.
Anne Swiedler
May 22, 2007
Mom,
It's been 39 years of knowing you. I have been formed by your love, grace and wisdom, and I give thanks to God for you. Those who love are beloved, especially, and always you. Have fun in your newest adventure, and although we will always miss you,we will see you again. Love and hugs your daughter in law, Anne
Peggy Wagner
May 22, 2007
Dear Mom,
How can I express all the love I have for you? (I don’t need to, you already know.) How can I express the profound ‘fortune’ I feel with you in my life? (you feel it too.) I know you are still here with me (with all), able to ‘converse’ whenever the moment strikes us both. And I look forward to more conversations, even though I don’t always ‘listen’ to you:)
You have taught me graciousness, you have demonstrated unconditional love, you have always listened with rapt attention to anything I wanted to talk to you about – and I was able to talk to you about anything. You were my confidant, my cheerleader, my co-aficionada in the appreciation of art and everything beautiful. You nurtured my love of music, my love of languages, and adventure. You taught me that being wise is admirable, but being loving is the most delicate and exquisite of all pursuits.
I miss you mom, but when I hear your voice, when I hear you laugh, when I hear you scoff, I am reassured that you are near.
Love forever,
Peggy
Darcy Kamin
May 21, 2007
Thinking of the last time I talked to Carol she was as usual concerned about the feelings and wellbeing of others...and wishing she could make everything for everyone all better...she is a spiritual and life mentor to me, I love her and I already miss being able to call her in the mornings after her walk on the beach. She was always available just to talk it through. How did she do that???
Much, Much Love,
Darcy
Bill Kamin
May 21, 2007
Two months have passed, and I'm still speechless. How does one summarize a lifetime? Whatever I accomplish in this life is due in no small part to her encouragement and support.. her ability to help me appreciate my value as a person. I am truly blessed to be able to call her "Mom"
She is here, now. She'll never leave us.
Fred Widdowson
May 21, 2007
Dear Swiedler family,
It has been many years since I spoke with you all and I will always have wonderful memories of the times I spent with each of you. Mrs. Swiedler was such a great lady, always so open and friendly, and I know that the loss you feel hurts a great deal. I wish and pray for only the best for all of you and for a special comfort for Mr. Swiedler. Take care and never forget.
Kathy Garner
May 21, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Each time I saw Carol, she always had a beautiful smile on her face with her arms open-wide to welcome you with a hug. She will be deeply missed. Much love, Kathy
Andrew Tillotson
May 14, 2007
Aunt Carol,
Though it has been quite some time since I last spoke with/saw you, you and Uncle Ed have given me and Isaac many fond memories. You made us feel like we were family, loved us, and allowed us the chance to experience life on a different level whenever we visted. You gave us freedom to roam, explore, and experience new facets of life. You welcomed us and made us feel comfortable....leaving was always hard to do. Oh, did I mention, the fear of Uncle Ed's torturous tickle-me sessions. I always hoped you would rescue me, but it was good you didn't. I just accepted it as it was a small price to pay for admittance to your humble abode.
Thanks for all the love and support not only for us, but for Mom and Dad.....you guys truely are "Best Friends".
Love,
Andrew
Kip and Carol Jean Vosburgh
April 30, 2007
CJ and I treasure the time spent with Aunt Carol and Ed. From the Thanksgiving family gathering, to her birthday, the hurricane week at our place. But what I remember most is that, even in a house full of people, when she spoke with you, she made you feel like you were the only person in the room, giving you her undivided attention and love. She made you feel important and special to her because we all were. As she was important and special to us.
To us, Carol was more than the musical matriarch and her love, laughter, voice, and presence will be missed. But it is reassuring to remember that her spirit and memories remain with us always.
I'll be seeing you;
In every lovely, summers day;
And everything that's bright and gay;
I'll always think of you that way;
I'll find you in the morning sun;
And when the night is new;
I'll be looking at the moon;
But I'll be seeing you.
T'Lene Tillotson
April 27, 2007
Carol and Ed were John's (my late husband) best friends and became mine as soon as I met them in 1970.
What do I say that can truly express the depth of my feelings for Carol who has had such a positive impact on my life and all who knew her?
I felt a sense of twin-ship with her. Although I cannot call her on the phone, she is still with me in spirit and I'm sure she watches over all of us.
Someone once said, "You have touched me - I have grown."
Through Carol, I really grew....she helped me find myself.
As I left the hospital the last time, (Carol knew I was returning to Georgia) we hugged, kissed and said, 'I love you'
Before leaving her room, I turned around to look back, blew her a kiss - she did the same, and I said, "I'll see ya." She replied, "YES! I'll see ya..real soon."
She 'sees' us all and watches over us as lovingly as she always did.....just in a different way.
But I still miss knowing I could call her....and I know you feel the same way....she was a living angel.
May you feel my love as you work through this most difficult time.
T'Lene
Isaac Tillotson
April 27, 2007
Aunt Carol, what a life you lived. You and Uncle Ed were so kind to our family and my twin brother and I will never forget the many times you welcomed us to your home and made us feel like one of the kids. For such a time as this, God made you to impact the world and you DID that beautifully. Thank you so much for being the very best in so many ways. Everyone thinks kindly of you and the family - The Tillotson all do. We are blessed to have known you. I pray you are with God and I know Uncle Ed wants to see you again and speak with you - that time will come. God bless the family during this time of passing from one extraordinary life to the next - eternal. My best always, Love always.
Andrea Ellis
April 27, 2007
Dear mom:
I miss you so much it hurts. I wish I could hear your voice one more time and as I am writing this, I do. I know you are here with me because I feel your presence. I love you mommy.
Love,
Drea
Autumn Ellis
April 27, 2007
Dear Great Grandma,
We share the same birthday. I will be 5 years old this year. I know you are watching over me from heaven.
Love,
Autumn
Celinda Miller
April 17, 2007
Dear Gretchen and Ed,
I mourn the loss of meeting Carol. She must be an amazing soul. My heart goes out to both of you and your family. May the Comforter enfold you in the wings of Grace.
I'm so glad that I at least could "meet" Carol through her story in Letters from The Cosmos.
How serendipitous that an impulsive perusal of our library's discard rack should lead me into Carol and Ed's circle of caring and sharing!
And that Gretchen graciously reaches out to me, as well, in the midst of her grief.
My heart is blessed by love.
Debby Cannon
April 11, 2007
"Miss Carol" We didn't know you for
very long but,the loss feels as if we had known you forever. My family and I extend prayers,love,
strength and sincere sympathy to
all the Swiedler family.
Tiffany and Tyler
Brittany Scott
April 10, 2007
Grandma, if only there were more beautiful, wise, and loving people like you. You are so very close to my heart and i love you. Brittany
betty jo massengale
April 9, 2007
carol was a second mother to christy and kelly massengale.she will be missed by everyone.condolences to the family.
Kelly Pierce
April 9, 2007
Thinking of you and a big smile comes to my face....you always knew the right things to say.With your big white shirt on and your cute little jeans, and your glass of wine in hand, only to listen to me WHINE.I loved you then,and I love you now......Kelly (Massengale) Pierce
Cheyenne Cannon
April 9, 2007
I had many great times at your house, thanks for being a great grandmother to all of us.
Laurie Hawkins
April 9, 2007
Mom, I am so lucky to have you for a mother ... and I say that in present tense rather than past tense. I can't call you on the phone or look into your eyes anymore, but I can still feel your love and laughter and guidance. I love you with all of my heart, and I always will.
betty&leo Pierce
April 8, 2007
At first the sadness and overwhelming loss was too much to even think about. Then I slowly realized, you had become so much a part of our lives, that you will always be there. Your love of life overplayed all of the highs and lows. Your understanding and acceptance made room for everyone. betty&leo pierce
Christy (Massengale) Olesen
April 3, 2007
As a young teen I was at the Swiedler house so much I had my own list of chores on weekends. The years I spent there assisted me in developing a foundation for my life that has carried me through some pretty difficult times. I am blessed with so many wonderful memories of Carol that have stayed crystal clear and remain so close; she once read "Jonathan Livingston Seagull", to all of us, and afterward wanted to discuss what it meant to everyone. We all had questions and opinions, and Carol listened intently to each of us. She had a way of making you feel that whatever you had to say was the most interesting thing in the world, even if you were only 14 years old. Later on she would read us, "Illusions", a book that has stayed close to my heart forever. Another night she came into the family room and made us stop what we were doing to watch Richard Nixon's resignation on tv. We all started to complain
but she told us we were about to watch history being made and insisted that we all watch it together. We did, and another group discussion followed.
At the Swiedlers, I learned that being a parent has nothing to do with biology. I experienced unconditional love and acceptance and saw, first hand, the "never let them divide and conquer" attitude of raising children. I would talk to Carol in later years about my dreams and life in general. Her infinate wisdom and inspiration for life at any age were infectious to everyone who met her. I have called upon my Swiedlerism all through out my life, with relationships, in raising my children, and now, with my grandchildren.
I know everyone is heartbroken at this time, but I cannot help but feel Carol's warmth and bright light closer now than ever before. A light that I know will continue to guide us all until we all meet again.
I didn't inherit Carol's beautiful singing voice like Drea or Laur, or her perfect skin like Gretchen, but I do twiddle my thumbs on the stearing wheel whenever I drive to whatever music is playing.
Much, much love and appreciation to all of you for everything.
Christy
Vahdat zarshenas
April 1, 2007
Sweet Carol Swiedler,
It is not often that an ordinary soul leaves so much extraordinary memories, warmth and unpretence in every life it touches and every body it meets. The total words exchanged between us directly did not exceed four or five (maybe not literally). But, what I know of her is beyond words. I know she is in absolute peace with all the love she has ever surrounded us with. God will bless this beautiful soul.
April 1, 2007
I am so sorry to learn of your great loss from my Aunt Louise{Mrs. David Swiedler}. Please know that I am thinking of you and pray for your comfort in the days ahead.
Sally Miller Rotunno
Fernando Sanchez
March 31, 2007
Carol, may you continue delivering your warmth, tenderness and love in your new home. I was blessed to have had the opportunity to spend time with you and your family. Always thought of you as an Angel on Earth. May you rest in peace, Fernando (the other Cuban)
Angela Scott
March 30, 2007
Grandma Carol, was the most inspirational, kind, wonderful person you could ever meet, and full of laughter. She brought alot of love into my life. She was my idol the one that reached out to me and gave me a strong warm feeling inside, because of her I feel like anything I want to do in life is possible. I will never forget her and I miss her everyday, when I would see her it would just put a smile on my face. I love this woman that came into my life, and I feel thankful everyday.
Susan D'Angelo
March 30, 2007
I cannot yet grasp the fact that I can't call Carol up anymore and talk about whatever. Now I have to wait for her to somehow contact me and she never could remember my phone number. Carol had a beautiful way of letting everyone in her life feel special to her. That is a gift. Her non-judgemental way, kindness, and truthfulness kept my heart always close to her. Whenever I spoke of Carol to anyone who did not know her, I told them that even though she was practically twice my age, I felt no generation gap. So either I am a lot older than I think or Carol was much younger than she said. I thank her family for sharing this beautiful woman with me for I am missing her greatly also. I bet when GOD sees Carol HE will tell her "you were definately a star in that life."
Chuck Massengale
March 29, 2007
Your house was an extended "home" for 2 of my girls (Christy and Kelly) in the 70's. . . not to even mention the horses!! Your love of family will never be forgotten.
Mark Henderson
March 28, 2007
Without knowing my best friend James I would have never met Gretchen.
Without knowing Gretchen I would have never met her wonderful mother Carol.
Without meeting Carol or hearing of her great warmth and kindness I would have never known of the love she bestowed on her family and their great love for her.
Family's like a trail of stars in a constellation, we all effect one another... and there is always a guiding light.
So on the next starry night, simply look up and say hello... I bet two stars will twinkle back.
Love and peace from Mark and family.
Shane Cannon
March 28, 2007
Deepest regards with love and sympathy to all. Thank you for always being there for my family in time of need. You will be missed.
Christian Duncan
March 28, 2007
It is in times of despair that we often discover the reserve of strength needed to carry us through.
Though I never had an opportunity to meet Carol, I have heard many stories of how wonderful she was from Gretchen.
You all are in my thoughts,
Nancy McFarland
March 28, 2007
I was blessed to have Carol in my life and will never forget the love and guidance she gave me. I'll miss her.
Love,
Nancy
Laura Marlow
March 28, 2007
Carol-
You taught me so much about how to be a good mother. I cherish the time we spent together. I had my birth mother, and after she was gone, I had you. I will never forget the memories, the walks on the beach, the long talks, the good times, and hanging out at the Disney Resort for free happy hour! Love, Laura
Linda Swiedler
March 27, 2007
While I am a relatively new member of this wonderful family, I am grateful that I had the opportunity to get to know and love Carol. My memory of one weekend in particular with her and Ed, when I got her undivided attention, heard her fabulous stories and her comforting philosophies, will always be treasured. Thank you, Carol. I'm sorry that I didn't know you sooner, but am delighted to be a part of a family so positively influenced by your love.
Michelle Guest
March 27, 2007
Oh, I carry with me such wonderful childhood memories of a beautiful, gracious lady, Mrs.Swiedler. As young girls we were in awe of her presence!She always brought with her such joy. Not a Holiday Season passes that I don't hear her voice, and it takes me back to caroling down Spalding!
My family sends to the Swiedler family loving embraces and prayers that you each may find the strengh you need at this time.
Always with love,
Michelle Glass Guest
The Hendrix Family
March 26, 2007
Your Mother's life's accomplishments are astounding, not the least of which is having a daughter like you, Peggy, and grand-daughters like Cammie and Katie. May family, friends and God's embrace help you always.
With heartfelt prayers,
Ornell Christie
March 26, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Susan Benson
March 26, 2007
The loss of a parent is a difficult grief to bear. My thoughts and prayers are with you,Katie and Cammie. What wonderful memories you must have of such a talented and loving mother.
Grace Song
March 26, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Beverly Forl
March 26, 2007
I guess the best of our lives is what we leave behind with others. I
knew your mother only through you and clearly, what she has left behind is expressed in the caring and talents of you and your family...the best. I know you will miss her, but in fact, she goes on through you, and while now you can't reach out and touch her, you can instead reach in and touch her.
Ruthanna & John
March 26, 2007
What a loving remembrance of a dynamic and influential woman! She must have had such an incredible impact on you and your whole family. She is undoubtedly one of the many reasons you are so remarkable. Thank you for sharing this with us. We will hold your family close in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Grace Canseco
March 26, 2007
Peggy, what a warm and loving tribute to your mom! After all these years of knowing you, I almost feel like I knew her well. I just met her that one time at your wedding. I know how much you miss her.
Alan Forsyth
March 26, 2007
A wonderful tribute. You must have cherished memories to help you during these difficult times.
Jennifer Silverberg
March 26, 2007
Peggy, What an amazing woman you were honored to know and love!! Of course, this is no surprise given that you are also such an amazing woman! Please know that our loving thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family as you move through this time of change.
Please take care of yourself and let others take care of you also,
Jennifer, Jeff, Jean and Chris
Susannah Price
March 26, 2007
It is so sad to say 'goodbye' to the woman who lovingly absorbed my mother, my sisters, and I into her already expansive clan. We instantly belonged, and always felt her genuine interest in our lives.
Love, Susannah
Fallon Proctor
March 26, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Carrie Damen
March 25, 2007
I loved my grandmother's laugh. I used to do and say the most ridiculous things to hear it. It's so vivid to me that i can still hear it even though she is gone... that gives me comfort. Thanks for everything, grandma!
Steve and Kathy Horner
March 25, 2007
We are very sorry for your loss.
Our prayers are with all of you.
Mary and Chuck Bumgarner
March 25, 2007
Carol, you were a wonderful friend to us for many years. We will always remember you with great fondness and miss having your love and wisdom to inspire us.
Thom Dupree
March 25, 2007
My sympathy and sincere condolances
go out to the Sweidler family in the loss of a very dear lady,she was very loved will be surely missed by all of us.
Stinky Butt Joe
March 25, 2007
Dad, don’t worry about mom, we are all here together. We are all with you too… ALWAYS.
Loving you, your son and friend,
Sharon Mosley
March 24, 2007
From the moment I met you, it was such a loving experience. You not only welcomed me into your heart and home but encouraged me to explore the universe and to see things are not always as they seem. I am truly blessed to have been around you and mourn knowing you are not physically here. Know you did leave a beautiful legacy, Carol and made a mark on this world not by all you accomplished but by all you achieved.
Charles Wright
March 24, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Roger Wright
March 24, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Denise (Wright) Lee
March 24, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Chris Swiedler
March 24, 2007
I feel lucky that I was able to know you, and I'm sad that my children won't be able to learn from you like I did. You are a wonderful person and the world is left a little bit empty by your absence.
Ed Swiedler (son)
March 24, 2007
There is not much to say other than I miss you and am waiting to hear from you.
Robert Wright
March 24, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lanette Brown
March 23, 2007
Carol, shared a copy of her book with me. She was truly a special spirit. May the highest spirit of her love surround you in your time of grief.
Ginny Kamin
March 21, 2007
To the family,
I am so glad that my husband and I were able to share her 80th birthday party and see so many of the "Swiedler" family that I hadn't seen for close to 25 years. We were able to hear Grandma Carol sing in person one last time. I am sorry I didn't get to see her more while growing up, but I am glad I saw her again after all those years and that my husband got to meet her. She is highly thought of. We are keeping everyone in our thoughts, and know that many others are thinking of you all.
Gretchen, you hang in there - this is too hard for you to handle without leaning on your family!
Love Ginny and Bart
Archie Cannon
March 21, 2007
There's so many wonderful things to be said about Carol.She was a wonderful,beautiful,loving and giving person.I feel she's with my son James who loved her dearly and they're rejoicing in heaven,their spirit and wonderful memories will be with us always. My love and prayers are with all the family in this very difficult time. Archie
Rita Wilson
March 21, 2007
Gretchen-
We are thinking of you and your family in this most difficult time. Your mother was a wonderful person and all of her beautiful qualities will continue on through you and your siblings. We are blessed to have known your mother. We will continue to keep you and your entire family in our continued prayers. We love you so very much.
Love,
Rita, Michael & Isabella Wilson
Aimee Ransom
March 20, 2007
Gretchen,
Though I never met your mom, I know she was a special lady. Randy has shared many stories of her life with me.
It sounds as though she touched many lives with her love and kindness. I am sure you must treasure those memories.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
With much love,
Aimee
Sherry (friend of Gretchen)
March 20, 2007
My heart aches too - not ever even having met this wondrous woman whom so many love and admired. Carol, your light shines on in those whose lives were so deeply touched by you.
March 20, 2007
It is hard for me at this time of sorrow to understand God’s plans, but I know that you have always been a wonderful part of them here and that He must have bigger things in store for you now.
I will miss your smile and laughter and will always cherish the wisdom of the words and writings you left behind. I am honored to have heard you sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” at James’ service. It touched me deeply and I will never forget it.
Your success as a Mother and Wife is evidenced by the fine quality of the people and the lives of those you leave behind. I am grateful to have known your family over the years and it is my hope that we can all help and Love one another in the times ahead of us. I will have an empty place in my heart and look forward to the time when we will meet again.
Love, Randy
Cathy (Massengale) McCleskey
March 20, 2007
Thinking of your family at this time in prayer and thoughts. Our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Cathy and John McCleskey
Hollie & Vince Meglio
March 20, 2007
We are so sorry for your loss. I know that she will be greatly missed. We are keeping your family in our prayers.
Stan Hawkins
March 20, 2007
I miss you mom. Your kind insignts on life will continue to guide me. Your story will continue to fascinate and inspire our generations. You will remain always to me brilliant, gifted and beautiful. We love you ... Stan, Laurie and grandchildren Kimi, Tommy, Danny.
David and Louise Swiedler
March 20, 2007
We love you, Carol, and we miss you very much. Most of all we'll miss your beautiful smiling face. You were always so gracious when we visited. It won't be the same without you.
Love,
David and Louise
Ginger Carter Miller
March 20, 2007
Gretchen and family of Carol:
We are with you in prayer and thought at this time of great sorrow. Much love, Ginger and Randy Miller and Jeffrey Carter
Gretchen Cannon
March 18, 2007
There will never be a more loving, kind and caring person in my life. I am so lucky to have been your daughter and to have shared so many wonderful times.
The world will never be as beautiful without you in it.
I will carry you in my heart forever.
Love Always, Gretchen
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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Carol Richards's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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