Carol Patricia Cloonan

Carol Patricia Rae Lynch Cloonan, 90, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Carol was born on March 5, 1935, to Franklin Lynch and Martha Woods Lynch in Cleveland, Ohio. Her family called her Dee or Dede most of the time. Her grandchildren called her Granny. She is predeceased by her loving husband, James Daniel Cloonan. They were married almost 70 years before he passed away January 22, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Franklin, Raymond, James, sister Kathy Mace, and Aunt Marguerite.
Carol was the mother to four daughters, Lynn (Joseph Zabel), Jamie, Kerrie and Katie. She was grandmother to seven grandchildren, Jason Jirsa, Lindsey Ross (James Green), Ryan Ross, Ashley Jirsa (David Sullivan), Rylee Wancho (Scott Pace), Bella Madariaga, and Weston Madariaga. She also has six great grandchildren, Addyson Ross, Zayden Ross, Coltyn Green, Zoey Pace, Braylee Green, and Ryckee Green. Her family and friends were so very important to her. Her lifelong friends from her school days and beyond called themselves the Omegas. She treasured their friendship.
Carol grew up in Cleveland and lived in Chesterland, Ohio from 1957 to 1983. The remainder of her life she resided in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Carol was always selfless, loving and kind. She cherished family and friends. She has always been the rock of the family and voice of reason, kindness and good humor. After turning 90 her motto became "I'm 90 and I'll do what I want." Her courage has to be mentioned as well. She is an icon.
By Carol's request there will be no visitation. A Celebration of Life is planned for North Carolina and Ohio. Carol and Jim will be laid to rest together at the Chester Township Cemetery, 12250 Chillicothe Road, Ohio.
Saturday June 14 Celebration of Life open house between noon-3pm 320 North College St. Wake Forest, NC 27587
Sunday July 27 Celebration of Life Luncheon 1pm Generations Event & Reception Center 12809 Chillicothe Rd. Chesterland, OH 44026
Memorial contributions can be made to Carolina Medical Mission - Ed Panganiban PAANC-CMM 4906 Cedar Glen Dr, Durham North Carolina 27713. Make checks payable to PAANC/CMM.