Carol Garbin

Carol Nichols Garbin, age 88, passed away at her assisted living facility, The Landing, in Bogart, Georgia, on Monday, August 11, 2025. She was born on April 22, 1937, in Durham, North Carolina, to the late Dr. Rhodes Edmond and Margaret Elizabeth Nichols. After graduating from Saint Mary’s School in Raleigh, NC, in 1955, Carol attended the Women’s College in Greensboro, NC, for two years before graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1959 with a BA degree in education. She later obtained her master’s degree in education from the University of Georgia.

In addition to her parents, Carol is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Dr. Albeno (“Al”) Patrick Garbin Sr., and her sister, Margaret “Betsy” Cooksey.

For more than 40 years, Carol was a devoted and enthusiastic teacher and educator. She taught elementary-aged children in five different states—Illinois, Nebraska, Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Georgia—before settling at her beloved Gaines Elementary School in Athens, GA, where she taught first grade until her retirement in 1999. In retirement, she continued her role in education as a supervisor of student teachers for Piedmont University (Athens Campus) for several years.

Affectionately known as “Nana” to her grandchildren and great-grandchild, Carol was a selfless and caring person who was the epitome of optimism. She was passionate about her family (including all pets!). Carol was a member of the Catholic Center at the University of Georgia. She enjoyed reading, working with crafts, and cherished (“absolutely love”) her friends and the staff at The Landing. Carol was a long-time breast cancer survivor.

Carol is survived by her children, Kelley Larson, Doug (Denise) Larson, Albeno “Patrick” Garbin Jr., and Carol Anne (Sean) McCartney; stepdaughters Angela Garbin and Tina (Frank Mufic) Garbin; grandchildren, Kimberly Matthews, Nicholas Larson, Lia Larson, Oliver Mufic, Albeno Patrick (“Trip”) Garbin III, Carol (“Townsend”) Walter, and Rebecca Garbin; and great-grandchild, Emilee Matthews.

Carol is also survived by one sister, Anne Nichols Moore of Durham, NC.

A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to Bulldogs Battling Breast Cancer (www.bulldogsbattlingbreastcancer.com) or Susan G. Komen for the Cure (www.komen.org).

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com