Celebrating the Life of Carol Elizabeth Tichenor

Psalm 118:24 "This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Carol Elizabeth Tichenor entered heaven on November 30, 2024. She was 81 years old. A lifelong optimist, Carol embodied humility, gratitude, and service, dedicating her life to God, her community, and her cherished family.

Born on August 31, 1943, in Klamath Falls, Oregon, to James and Elizabeth Perkins, Carol grew up in Klamath Falls, graduating from Klamath Union High School. She earned her bachelor's degree in education from Southern Oregon University in 1965. It was there that Carol met the love of her life, Don, on a blind date. They married on June 13, 1965, embarking on a partnership filled with love, faith, and shared adventures.

Carol's career as an educator spanned 34 years, beginning in Medford, where she taught 4th grade, followed by roles in Roseburg and Glide. From 1970 to 1982, she took a break from teaching to devote herself to raising her three children: Todd (born March 2, 1970), Amy (born February 19, 1972), and Jennifer (born October 27, 1977). She later returned to teaching in Monmouth and subsequently in Albany. Carol taught at North Albany Middle School, Fir Grove Elementary, and Oak Grove Elementary, earning admiration for her kindness, creativity, and dedication. She made house calls for sick students and chaperoned educational trips to Washington, D.C., and New York. Carol retired from teaching in 1999.

In retirement, Carol embraced her love of travel. She and Don spent many winters in Palm Springs, often hosting friends and family. Together with their "cruise crew," they explored sunny destinations and enjoyed several cruises. Carol also delighted in visiting multiple states, national parks, and presidential libraries with a close-knit group of dear friends, all fellow educators. At home, she poured her energy into gardening, cooking, creating special memories with her grandchildren and serving her church. A woman of deep faith, Carol was active in her church throughout her adult life.

Carol is now reunited in heaven with her beloved son, Todd, who passed in 2014. She is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Don Tichenor; daughters Amy Tichenor (and husband Bill Peters) and Jennifer Eyerly (and husband Josh Eyerly); daughter-in-law Mindy Tichenor; seven grandchildren: Matthew Peters, Natalie Peters, Kaitlyn Cooke, PJ Cooke, Benjamin Peters, Ryan Peters, and Garrett Eyerly; her sister Nancy Perkins; brother-in-law John Tichenor; sisters-in-law Ann Tichenor and Sue Tichenor; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Carol's life was a beautiful testament to love, kindness, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.