Obituary published on Legacy.com by Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home - Northside on Dec. 31, 2025.
Carol Teresa Walbey-Rhoad, quietly left this world on Sunday, December 28, 2025, in her beloved hometown of
Jacksonville, Florida. Born on May 17, 1968, Carol was a cherished daughter, devoted wife, loving mother, and a trusted friend to many. She graced this earth for 57 years, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy woven through love, compassion, and service to others.
Carol was born to Harold Walbey Jr. and Johnnetta Jones Walbey, who nurtured her spirit and instilled in her the values of kindness and perseverance. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Reverend John Wesley Jones and Lenora Grace Jones, and paternal grandparents, Harold Walbey, Sr. and Theodosia Walbey, whose guiding presence undoubtedly shaped her faith and character.
A proud graduate of Jean Ribault High School, class of 1987, Carol continued her education at Edward Waters College, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in 1991. She dedicated her career to uplifting others as an educator within the Duval County Public Schools, and later as a social worker at Northwest Behavioral Health and the Community Rehabilitation Center. Her life's work was a testament to her unwavering commitment to mental health and community service.
In 2007, Carol married her beloved husband, Michael Rhoad. Together they shared 18 wonderful years filled with laughter, love, and partnership. Carol was a devoted mother to her three children: Alton Cullins, Jr. (Ayana), Alon Cullins, and A'on Cullins. Her family was her pride and joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them.
Carol's legacy extends beyond her immediate family. She is survived by her loving mother, Johnnetta Jones Walbey; her father, Harold Walbey (Janice); and a large, close-knit family, including her brothers and sisters: Harold Walbey, III, Sonya Ray (Robert), Tonya Jones (Floyd), Tammy Russell (O'brian), Dr. Dorothy Stephens (Richard), John Walbey (Malisha), Johnnetta Stanley (Jacob), Vesica Harris, Adrian Walbey, Miles Walbey (Zatavia), Tracey Rozier (Derek), Warneck Harrell (Lorenzo), Antonio Walbey (Trina), Carmen Walbey, Michelle Walbey, Tonya Gray (Adrian), Nefertori Walbey, Stacey Cooper, Gary Cooper, and Shante Gilbert. She also leaves behind her devoted sister-cousins, Michelle Williams and Dr. Alva Bell-Bullard; her beloved in-law, Barbara Scott; her godchildren, Chenell Henderson and Diamond Richards; as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many sorrowing friends who will miss her dearly.
A lifelong member of Saint Stephen African Methodist Episcopal Church, Carol was active in her community and was proud to be part of the Kappa Sweet organization. She had a zest for life that was reflected in her wanderlust; she loved to travel and explore new places, sharing her adventures with her friends and family through her engaging content creation.
Carol's gentle spirit, infectious laughter, and loving heart touched everyone she encountered. She will be remembered not only for her contributions to her family and community but also for her ability to embrace life with an open heart and an unwavering faith.
While her physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to inspire and guide all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace, dear Carol. Your love and light will forever shine in our hearts.
Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.
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