Anderson, Indiana - Carol A. McElroy, 88, of Anderson, left us peacefully on June 19, 2026. Born on Oct. 17, 1937, in Portland, Indiana, to James and Minnie (Ritter) McElroy, Carol was a vibrant soul who lit up the lives around her.

She was an active and loving member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Anderson, Singles Group at Place Park Church and Square Dancers, where she found a second family and was a main focal point in her life. Carol had a remarkable talent for sewing, where she owned and operated her own craft shop; her skills extended to needlepoint and crocheting. Many will remember her for the beautiful hats and booties she lovingly knitted for the nurses and their newborns at her nursing home, spreading warmth and joy wherever she went.

Carol is survived by her beloved nieces, Ann Englehart, April Rubush, Autumn Ray, and Alicia Garry Gaston; along with several cousins and a special cousin, Diana Kooy.

She also leaves behind her dear friend, Irene Yost, who cherished their time together.

The family wishes to thank, for their support of Carol in later years, her friends, Essential Health & Living nurses and aides, Dick Ward, Christopher Hutton, and John Longnaker, whom Carol befriended while working as office assistant for Richard E. Ward & Associates Surveyors in the 1990s.

Carol is preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Stephen (Leah) McElroy.

A graveside service will be held at noon Friday, June 26, 2026, at Gardens of Memory Cemetery, 10703 Ind. 3, Muncie.

Friends and family are invited to join in honoring Carol's life. Memorial gifts may be given to St John's Lutheran Church, Anderson, Essential Health & Living's Senior Connections, or Guardian Advocates Inc, whose case manager Samantha Smith's help was invaluable to Carol.