Carol F. Smith

Carol Fay Christenson Smith, 94, of Janesville passed away on March 6, 2026. She was born on November 25, 1931 in Janesville, WI, the daughter of Melvin B. and Lucille L. (Woods) Christenson. Carol graduated from Janesville High School in 1949. She married her high school sweetheart Charles Harrison Smith on September 29, 1951 in Janesville; they were married for more than 72 years.

Upon graduation from high school Carol went into the secretarial business and became the secretary to the Superintendent of Janesville Public Schools for almost 40 years. She worked efficiently and with the utmost professionalism for four successive superintendents. She also used her administrative talents while employed by the Wisconsin State Educators Council. Upon her retirement she served many years as the treasurer for the Janesville Retired Educators Association and became the archivist for the Janesville Board of Education. She also was a primary coordinator for her high school Class of ‘49 reunions; their last big celebration was their 70th Class Reunion.

Carol was an avid bridge player, belonging to multiple clubs and delighted in hosting bridge gatherings at her family home. She loved to read and continuously shared books amongst her friends in informal book clubs. A lifelong pet owner, she loved her cats and dogs and was involved in transporting dogs through the Airedale Terrier Rescue and Adoption program. Carol volunteered with the Mercy Women’s Auxiliary and particularly enjoyed working with her friends at Castaways (Re-Tag-It). She also managed the scheduling of volunteers at Rotary Gardens for many years.

Carol was loved by her family. Her infectious laugh and easy going manner always radiated joy. Carol epitomized Midwestern kindness and was an eternal optimist. She was predeceased by her husband Charles, who died in May 2024. Survivors include her son Peter and his wife, and Carol’s favorite daughter-in-law, Aimee Smith of Janesville, WI; Carol’s daughter Pam and her husband, the favorite son-in-law, Fred Rowe of Clarksville, MD; and her beloved grandchildren, David and Martha Rowe, and Beca and Lydia Smith.

Visitation will be Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 10:00 am followed by a service at 10:30 am at the FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH CHAPEL with Pastor James Johnson presiding. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a contribution to First Lutheran Church, or to a charity of your choice in her memory. Carol’s family would like to give special thanks for the wonderful care she received at Cedar Crest over the years and for the supportive staff and attentive hospice care at SSM Health.

HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME is assisting Carol Smith’s family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.henkeclarson.com