Carol Garlington

Janet Carol Garlington, whose smile was as big as Montana, died suddenly and unexpectedly of a stroke on August 4, 2025, at the age of almost 84.

Carol left behind many dear friends, including musicians, hiking companions, neighbors, and her beloved dog Rally. Rally has since been adopted into a new home where she has already made lots of doggie friends.

Carol was born August 25, 1941 in Missoula to Nancy Hammatt Garlington and James C. Garlington. She grew up in Missoula’s rich musical environment and played violin in school, camp orchestras, and chamber groups.

Carol graduated from Missoula High School in 1959, then crossed the country by train to attend Wellesley College in Massachusetts, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in music history and a Master’s degree in musicology. She lived for many years in the Boston area, working as music editor for Harvard University Press and then working in investment counseling. She returned to Missoula in 2018.

Carol loved animals and being outdoors. She adopted and cared for several cats and dogs throughout her life. As a child, she enjoyed going to the family cabin, riding horseback, and skiing with her dad. After she returned to Missoula, she and Rally explored the area’s beautiful hiking trails every day.

Carol delighted in friends, neighbors, food, and music. She served as a board member and treasurer for the String Orchestra of the Rockies. She played first violin in Garden City Strings, and she played chamber music “just for fun” with other friends in Missoula. She was wicked smart. The hallmarks of her life were kindness, laughter, generosity, creativity, and a sharp wit. Knowing Carol made you a better person.

Carol is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Richard Clark Garlington. She is survived by her sister Suzanne Garlington Samuelson (George) and her many nieces and nephews.

There will be no services. Donations in Carol’s honor can be made to the String Orchestra of the Rockies (https://sormt.org/product/sor-donation/) or Thompson River Animal Care (TRACS) (https://www.pet-tracs.com/index.php/en/). If you wish to share a memory or story about Carol, please enter it in the guest book at the end of the obituary page.