Pamela Anderson Carroll

It is with both sadness and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we share that our mom, Pamela Anderson Carroll, went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 14, 2026.

Pamela Marie Anderson was born on May 24, 1947, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Arthur Earl and Osie Marie (Miller) Anderson. She was the oldest of three daughters.

Pam graduated from Ridgewood High School in Ridgewood, New Jersey, where she sang in The Madrigals, a choral group, and the Brandy Hill Singers, a traveling folk ensemble. She later attended David Lipscomb College in Nashville on a voice scholarship and was a member of the historic Acappella Singers, an all-voice ensemble that performed and recorded widely and at one time collaborated with Lipscomb alumnus Pat Boone. Prior to graduating, Pam left Nashville and moved to Tabernacle, New Jersey with her new husband, Dan Parker, where her first daughter was born.

After relocating to Lakeland, Florida, in 1971 with her family, Pam returned to college and earned her degree from the University of South Florida College of Education in 1983, followed by a Master of Education in 1993. She devoted many years to teaching in the Polk County School District, serving at Polk Avenue Elementary, Highland City Elementary, and Scott Lake Elementary. While at Highland City, she was honored as Polk County Teacher of the Year in 1988. She was also instrumental in bringing the USF College of Education’s cluster program to Polk County, enabling local students to complete their degrees close to home. Pam continued to be a champion of education after formally retiring. She taught literacy courses, led the team that would open Shepherd Road Christian Academy, and tutored into her final years.

In 1992, Pam married Harry Lee Carroll. Though their earthly marriage was brief, their love endured and remained a steady source of strength throughout her life. It was a sweet gift that they were reunited on Valentine’s Day.

In 1996, Pam and Harry established the Carroll Community Development Association. Through the CCDA and with the support of their church, Shepherd Road Presbyterian, Pam founded the Parker Street Project. That work became Parker Street Ministries, which continues today as a thriving ministry in the heart of Lakeland. Pam faithfully served the Parker Street neighborhood, building lasting friendships and chosen family that remained throughout her life.

Before her health began to decline, Pam loved to travel. She and her sisters were a part of a group they called ‘The Fearsome Five’, RV’ing from coast to coast.

Even as her health began to limit her activity, Pam continued to seek meaningful ways to serve her church, her community, and those she encountered in daily life. Her calling was to reflect the love and care of Jesus, especially to those beyond her immediate circle. She was generous to a fault with her time, resources, and gifts. She leaves a legacy of open-handed giving and steadfast faith.

Pam loved to worship. She loved the beach, sunsets, board games, a water view, a side cup of ice, extra napkins, and ice cream.

Pam is survived by her sister, Judith Ann Anderson of Lakeland, Florida; her children, Staci Parker DiMotta (Emil) of Lakeland, Scott Anderson Parker (Kelly) of Lakeland, and Stephanie LynnAnn Parker of Lakeland; and six grandchildren who were the lights of her life: Logan DiMotta (Caroline), Tristan Parker, Evan Parker, Emma Parker, Lily DiMotta, and Everett Parker. She is also lovingly remembered by nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Osie Anderson; her sister, Deborah Lynn Turk; and her husband, Harry Lee Carroll.

We will celebrate Pam’s life on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at The Club at EagleBrooke. All who knew and loved her are welcome to join us as we honor and remember her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Parker Street Ministries at psmlakeland.org/donate