Carol Travis Phelan, 81, passed away on September 23, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. She was born and raised in Arizona and moved to Texas when she was 17.
Born on November 11, 1943, Carol led a vibrant and determined life. She began her career in management with Southland Corporation (7-11) before transitioning into real estate in 1978. With drive and dedication, she quickly rose to become a top producer for Henry S. Miller and Century 21, later achieving continued success as a RE/MAX Broker Associate. She pioneered the use of the TTY system for several agents in the community working with the Deaf. Her personalized Cadillac license plate, "CT-Lady," became a familiar sight in the community as a symbol of her strong presence and professional excellence.
Carol found the love of her life, Charles M. Phelan, through an in-depth computer match, Compudate - for which they both paid. She lost her list of matches, but he did not and to this day he says it is the best $35.00 he has ever spent. They met on October 30, 1985, and planned to marry on Valentine's Day but could not wait and wed on January 29th, 1986. Their marriage spanned over 39 years, filled with shared adventures including tennis matches and RV travels across the country with their beloved dogs and cat.
She was the cornerstone of her family, fierce, loving, and generous. Carol is survived by her husband Charles; children R.D. Davis, Marie Travis Giasson and her husband, Marvin, and Karen Hoffman; grandchildren Brandie Austin and her husband Harold, Michelle Wood and her fiancé Reed Hinson, Mason Giasson, Mallorie Giasson, Tyler Davis and his wife Sydney, Paden Riley, and Chase McNichols; as well as many great and great-great grandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her daughter Lori A. Freed.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carol had a deep love for painting, traveling, shopping, and caring for her dogs. She was known as the rock of her family – a fiery redhead with a generous heart who wasn't afraid to show tough love when needed. Her strength and kindness left an indelible mark on those around her. She loved God deeply and held her family close to her heart.
In accordance with her wishes, Carol donated her body to the UNT Science Center. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
In Honor of Carol's memory, donations may be made to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Published by Star-Telegram from Oct. 3 to Oct. 5, 2025.