Carol Gay Torpy Lackey was born at home on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1938, in Shippen Twp. Tioga County. Carol passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. She was 86 years old.
Carol was the cherished daughter of John Luther Torpy and Audrey Ruby Parsons Torpy, and grew up in Tioga County, where she cultivated a lifelong love for family, community, and tradition. Her sisters Marilyn and Gloria preceded her in death.
On August 19, 1957, Carol married Robert Lackey Jr., beginning a devoted partnership that spanned decades. They just celebrated 68 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children-Robin Sylvia, John Matthew Stuart, and Constance (Connie) Jeannine. Instilling in them the values of kindness, resilience, and acceptance. Carol's nurturing spirit and unwavering support were the foundation of her family's strength. Carol and Bob spent a good portion of their married life in Bucks County and eventually moved back to her home of Wellsboro.
Throughout her life, Carol was known for her gentle demeanor and Iove of being a homemaker. Carol was often found in her garden on a warm summer day. She enjoyed quilting, crafting with a friend, and was a fantastic baker. She also had a lifelong passion for genealogy. She passed her hobbies onto her children.
She lived in Wellsboro for many years, where she was a familiar presence. Carol and her husband Bob Lackey volunteered at the Tioga County Visitors Bureau and Tioga County Historical Society where she was treasurer for many years. She shared wisdom (and cookie recipes) with her children and grandchildren in a frank, understanding and accepting way. Her legacy lives on in the stories she told, the traditions she upheld, and the lives she touched.
Carol is survived by her spouse, Robert C. Lackey Jr.; her children, Robin Lackey (Michael), John Lackey, and Connie Lackey Ludwig (David); and her grandchildren, Deirdra (Dee) Lackey, Jennifer Farmer Smith, Keith Farmer (Naomi), Koren Falcone Brown (Zachary), Isaiah Jackson (Madalyn), and Makenzy Jackson (Elijah), whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Demetri, Dorien, Lillian (Kayden), Donald, Sophia, Kelton, Keirsyn, Case, and Kyle, as well as her great great-grandson, Oaklan. Carol is remembered with love and gratitude by a niece, many nephews, and friends, all of whom carry forward her memory.
"A limb has fallen from the family tree, that says please don't grieve for me. Remember the best times, the laughter, the songs, the hugs, the good life I lived while I was strong." Carol chose these words to comfort those she loved most. They reflect the joy, music, and positivity she embraced and gave so freely and the strength in which she lived.
A private service will be held later to honor Carol's life.
Her arrangements have been entrusted to the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation or give your time to a senior at the Green Home in Wellsboro. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit
www.tusseymosher.com.Published by The Wellsboro Gazette from Sep. 1 to Sep. 8, 2025.