Carol Joyce Civitella

1942 - 2025

Carol Joyce Civitella, a loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother, caring sister, supportive aunt and treasured friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Tidewell Hospice in Arcadia, Florida.

Born on October 30, 1942, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to Robert and Ruth Kline, Carol lived a life marked by kindness, laughter, and a deep love for her family and community.

Carol grew up in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Reidsville, North Carolina, and Rutherford, New Jersey. After graduating from Northport High School in Long Island, she earned her degree from SUNY Oneonta and later began a rewarding career as a kindergarten teacher in New London, Connecticut.

In 1971, Carol and her husband moved to Port Charlotte, Florida, where she embraced her new community wholeheartedly, giving her time to Sallie Jones Elementary School in Punta Gorda.

Carol's life was one of service and connection. She was actively involved in the Junior Women's Club, the Charlotte County Women's Tennis League, and enjoyed countless rounds of golf at Kingsway Country Club. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels and was a vibrant member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, where she participated in Bible study, the bell choir, quilting group, Vacation Bible School, and other church ministries.

Carol loved to be surrounded by people. She found joy in entertaining and was known for hosting festive gatherings and memorable Super Bowl parties. She had a true passion for cooking and was an exceptional cook who brought family and friends together with her meals. Whether tending to her garden, playing tennis or golf, or spending time with loved ones, Carol approached life with energy and warmth.

She was also creative, always working on arts and crafts projects or quilting with her church friends. Carol was a loyal viewer of The Young and the Restless, and her sharp wit and signature corny jokes left an impression on everyone she met. More than anything, she loved being with her children, grandchildren, and friends-engaging in conversation, sharing laughter, and creating lasting memories.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Ruth Kline, and her brother, Ronald Kline Sr. She is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, Dr. Thomas Civitella; her son, Tim (Wendy) Civitella; her daughter, Cynthia (Brian) Romano; and her cherished grandsons, Terren and Reed Civitella and Bryte Romano. She is also survived by her brother, Robert (Carolyn) Kline; her nephews, Andrew, Ronald Jr., Steven, Jason, and Gary; her nieces, Suzy and Janine; as well as many cousins and lifelong friends.

A Celebration of Carol's Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 2565 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Carol's memory to Tidewell Hospice - Arcadia Hospice House, c/o Tidewell Foundation, 3550 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34239. www.tidewellhospice.com