Marie Ruth Carson

Marie Ruth Carson, 88, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by the love of her family, on Monday, January 5, 2026. Born on July 4, 1937, in Conneaut, Ohio, Marie was the daughter of the late William and Ida (Stoker) Hill. A lifelong resident of the area, she graduated from East Springfield High School before continuing her education, earning both her Bachelor's Degree in Education and later her Master's Degree. On August 20, 1955, she married the love of her life, Matthew Carson, Jr., beginning a devoted partnership that lasted until his passing in 2002. Marie dedicated 22 years of her life to teaching elementary students in the Ashtabula Area City Schools, where her patience, kindness, and steady guidance shaped countless young lives. Her commitment to teaching extended beyond the classroom-she served as a Bible school instructor at the Federated Church in East Springfield, Pennsylvania, and taught Sunday school at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Ashtabula. Her faith and her love of children were threads woven throughout her life. When her son was young, Marie served as a den mother for the Boy Scouts, a role she embraced with enthusiasm. She was active in numerous organizations, including O.E.A. and N.E.A., the Order of the Eastern Star #239, and the Ashtabula Farm Bureau. She also served for 16 years on the Buckeye Local Schools Board, holding positions as both President and Vice President, and was a proud member of the Woman's Club of Ashtabula. Through each of these roles, Marie gave generously of her time, energy, and leadership. Above all else, Marie cherished her family. Time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought her the greatest joy, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who loved her. Marie is survived by her children: Matthew Carson III, Dianne Carson-Arndt, Debra Carson, Denise Carson, and Darlene Carson-Glover; her sister, Phyllis Shakespeare; her grandchildren, James (Jen) Arndt, Jason (Kate) Arndt, and Meghan (Jon) Dalaba; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Matthew Jr.; her sons-in-law, Matthew Arndt and Bryon Glover; her brothers-in-law, Robert Shakespeare and Harlow Carson; and her nephew, William Shakespeare. Honoring Marie's wishes, private services will be held. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Edgewood Cemetery in Ashtabula. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to a charity of your choice or Hospice the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Ave., Ashtabula, Ohio 44004. Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula, is assisting the family. Online obituary and condolences may be shared at www.ducro.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marie, please visit our floral store.