Carol Ann Cavanaugh

Carol Ann Cavanaugh, born May 6, 1953, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, after bravely facing a recurrence of cancer. Born in Philadelphia, PA to Alice (McAteer) and James Cavanaugh, she was baptized and attended Saint Cyril's Grade School before graduating from Archbishop Prendergast Catholic High School.

The oldest of six children, Carol embodied every quality of a devoted firstborn. She excelled in all she did, and from an early age, took on the role of mentor, caretaker, and guide to her younger siblings. While her mother, Alice, worked tirelessly, Carol managed the household - getting everyone to school, dinner, practices, games, and events. She was an extraordinary daughter, sister, and steady presence for all who depended on her. Her summers spent in Wildwood remain cherished memories for her and her family.

Carol experienced several meaningful loves throughout her life, including Andrew Giarraff, father of her beloved daughter, Alicia - the true love of Carol's life. Alicia's passing in 2003, after a long illness, was a profound loss. Carol is also predeceased by her mother, Alice McAteer, and her nephew, Sean Cavanaugh.

Carol is survived by her siblings:
Eileen Cavanaugh of Cocoa, FL; James Cavanaugh (Pamela) of Cocoa Beach, FL; Michael Cavanaugh (Maria) of Ponte Vedra, FL; Alice Osborn of Rising Sun, MD; and Deborah Miller (Tim) of Nottingham, PA.

She is also survived by her nieces and nephews:
BJ Cavanaugh of Cocoa, FL, Dallas Cavanaugh (Jen) of Orlando, FL: George Austin Mounce (Elizabeth), Rockledge, FL; Carleigh Watson (Nicholas), Merritt Island, FL; Colin Cavanaugh (Brianna) of St. Augustine, FL; Matthew Miller (Jennifer) of Orlando, FL; and Adam Miller (Sarah) of Charlottesville, VA.

Carol found immense joy in watching her nieces and nephews build their own lives, and she adored the 14 grandnieces and grandnephews, treating them as her own grandchildren.

Professionally, Carol built an exceptional career. Most notably, she worked more than 32 years of Federal Service, beginning with her early career with the National Labor Relations Board in Philadelphia, PA. Upon relocating to Florida, Carol began a noteworthy career with NASA at Kennedy Space Center, serving in the Director of Public Affairs Office. She was promoted to a Protocol Specialist where she coordinated special events and protocol for special high-ranking officials and dignitaries, including astronauts and their families - work she approached with grace, skill, expertise, and a deep sense of pride.

Throughout her career, Carol was involved in numerous significant events and organizations, including Board of Directors for Launch Credit Union, NASA Alumni, Return to Flight, U.S. Olympics, and opening of the Apollo/Saturn V Center.

Carol approached life with enthusiasm, humor, and an indomitable spirit. She loved to travel, plan adventurous vacations, host gatherings, and create memories that her family and friends will forever cherish. She taught invaluable life lessons to those who knew her— to love deeply, to care for others, to laugh at oneself, to value friendships, to find joy in everyday moments, and above all, to treasure family.

Carol's life will be celebrated on January 10, 2026, at Church of Our Saviour Catholic Church in Cocoa Beach, FL at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon reception will follow, with details to be announced at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.

Her most generous spirit, humor, kindness, and love will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved her.