Carol Meldrum

Carol Joyce (Inglis) Meldrum passed away peacefully in Mecosta, Michigan on February 20, 2025, following a battle of several years with dementia. Born on September 9, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, Carol's was affectionately known by many as "Ma," "Mama Carol," and "Nana." Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, humor, and love.

Carol's journey began in Detroit, where she was raised by her parents, Evelyn (Briggs) and William Inglis. A "change of life baby," Carol's sisters were much older than she, allowing her to form close relationships early on with her nephews and cherished niece, Susan. She began working in her teens to help at home, which shaped her into a person who valued connection and service to others. While being a mother, then grandmother, was "the best job she ever had" Carol found that customer service was her specialty! Her bubbly personality and genuine care for people was realized by many during her final years of employment as a Walmart associate, where she became a treasured figure among colleagues and customers alike.

Her life was rich with love, and she commonly referred to her children and grandchildren as her "pride and joy." Carol's legacy is carried on through her devoted children, Lisa (Craig) Roach and Jeff (Michelle Clark) Dotson, and her precious grandchildren, Jacob, Zachary, Maria, and Sarah. Her laughter and spirit live on in them. Carol's love story with her beloved husband, Joseph, who preceded her in death in 2017, was one for the ages. Their connection was true and deep, and although she suffered with dementia, not a day had passed when her heart didn't continue to ache for her soulmate.

Carol's interests and hobbies were a reflection of her loving nature. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, like immersing herself in a good book or visiting with her neighbors while working in her yard and tending to her flowers. Above all, spending time with her loving family was her favorite pastime. She would absolutely glow whenever she could have "all her children (and grandchildren) together!" She was thankful to have them gather once more to pour their love onto her in her final days on earth.

Her sisters and brothers-in-law, Margaret (Gordon) Sokoll and Frances (Marshall) McCausland, also preceded her in death. They shared many fond memories, and their influence on Carol's life was profound and lasting.

In addition to her biological family, Carol was blessed to share her life with many friends who became extended family. Jerry & Janet Newberry, Darva Borowka, Sheryl Haight, and her entire Royal View Assisted Living family showered her with a tremendous amount of love and care.

Carol's approach to living was characterized by her loving nature and matter-of-fact outlook on life. She was the embodiment of friendliness and was never one to mince words. Those who knew Carol will remember her as someone who made their days a little brighter, their moods a little lighter, and their moments together all the more precious.

As we celebrate Carol's life, we are reminded of the indelible mark she left on the hearts of those she met. Her warmth and her laughter are gifts that will continue to inspire and comfort us all. Carol Joyce (Inglis) Meldrum lived a life full of love and laughter, and her spirit will forever be valued and remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A funeral Mass will be officiated by Reverend Jegar Fickel at St. Mary Catholic Church, 1009 Marion St. in Big Rapids, Michigan, on Thursday, March 6, at 11:00 a.m. Carol's family will greet friends prior to the funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. and a luncheon will immediately follow in St. Mary's Parish Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Royal View Staff, c/o Brittany Riskovich, at 9100 Buchanan Rd, Mecosta, MI 49332, in appreciation of their exceptional care and kindness.