Carol Ann "Thompson" Toth

Carol was born on January 7, 1948, in Sweetwater, Tennessee, the daughter of Charles and Pauline Thompson. In 1951, as Michigan's auto industry was booming, the family relocated to Michigan when her father began employment with Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors. Like many families of that era, they first lived in rental homes before settling into a partially finished house in Waterford-one that Carol's father completed himself. During those years, the family grew with the birth of Carol's brother and later her sister.

Tragedy struck in 1963 when Carol's father died suddenly in an accident on the family's property in northern Michigan. His passing was a devastating blow. Carol's mother courageously stepped into the role of sole provider, working in the executive dining room at Pontiac Motor, and later remarried in 1965.

That same year, Carol married and welcomed her daughter, Donna, in 1966. As a young mother, Carol found herself needing to support her own family and accepted a position in the Pontiac Motor Administration Building-beginning a career marked by responsibility and resilience.

In the summer of 1970, Carol met Steve Toth at Pontiac Motor shortly after his return from military leave, which included an extended tour of duty in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. Their relationship grew quickly, and they were married in July of 1971. Together with Donna, they formed a close, loving family that would grow deeply rooted in faith.

After being away from church for many years, Carol felt a strong desire to return. As a family, they began attending Dixie Baptist Church in Clarkston. In February of 1974, through Carol's encouragement and guidance, Steve came to faith in Christ. Steve and Donna were baptized on the same Sunday-a moment that became a cornerstone of their family's spiritual life.

Wherever life took them, Carol faithfully served the Lord. From Calvary Baptist Church in Canton and Plymouth Christian Academy, to Highland Park Baptist Church and later Grace Centers of Hope in Pontiac, Carol valued strong biblical teaching, meaningful fellowship, and opportunities to serve.

Carol lived a full and creative life. She loved cooking and amassed an impressive collection of cookbooks. She took great pride in tending her flowers and plant gardens, weaving baskets-many of which she gifted to others-and decorating her home beautifully for every major holiday. Carol and Steve took ballroom dancing lessons, became quite accomplished, and found great joy dancing together. As a family, Carol, Donna, and Steve cherished cruising Woodward Avenue in their 1965 Mustang Convertible during the Dream Cruise and spending relaxing days on their pontoon boat on the lake they called home. Carol also enjoyed golfing with the women from her Bible Study Fellowship class, always finding laughter and companionship on the course.

Family-on both sides-was always central to Carol's heart.

Carol and Steve shared a deep love of travel. Within the United States, they enjoyed visiting family and friends throughout the Eastern and Southern states, frequently returning to Tennessee to spend time with Carol's relatives. Internationally, they explored much of the world together. Western Europe held a special place in their hearts, with Italy standing out as their favorite destination. They sailed with friends in the British Virgin Islands and spent many winters enjoying extended stays in Mexico. Their travels also included Hawaii, Japan, China, Thailand, and India.

Carol will be remembered as a woman of faith, strength, creativity, and warmth-someone who embraced life fully, loved deeply, and served faithfully. Her legacy lives on through her family, her friendships, and the many lives she touched along the way.

Overall, Carol and Steve felt that God had blessed them in difficult times as well as good times and they have shared this with many others over the years. Steve assured her that Jesus would welcome her and say to her, "well done, good and faithful servant" and someday he would join her in Heaven.

Carol was preceded in death by her daughter Donna Butler, and her parents Don and Pauline Kitchin. Carol is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, Steve Toth; siblings Linda (Steve) Theis, Larry (the late Dianna) Thompson; step brothers, Brad (Beth) Kitchin and Brian (Kelly) Kitchin. She is also survived by a number of grandnephews and grandnieces.

A funeral service will be held Friday, January 23, 2026 at 11 AM at GraceWay Bible Church, 28600 Lahser Road, Southfield. Family will receive friends Friday 10 AM at church until time of service. Burial at a later date in Ottawa Park Cemetery, Clarkston. In lieu of flowers please make a contribution in Carol's memory to the charity of your choice.