Carolyn (Shoesmith) Cole

Carolyn Cole of Cranston, RI passed away on Sunday, March 10,2024.

Born March 2, 1940, in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Grace and John Shoesmith.

After graduating from Warwick Veteran’s High School, Carolyn went on to receive her bachelor’s degree from the University of Rhode Island and later went back to school to complete a master’s degree in human development and Family Science.

Before retiring, Carolyn served as the Associate Dean in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Rhode Island. She was passionate about education, devoted to her family, and a lifelong learner.  In her free time, she was an accomplished writer and served as a docent at the John Brown House in Providence.

Carolyn leaves her son, Richard Guckel and his wife Kayla Guckel; her daughter Jennifer Guckel Porter and her husband, Ted Porter; grandchildren Benjamin Porter, Samuel Porter and Samuel Guckel, and five great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ellis Cole.

Visitation will take place Thursday, March 14th from 5pm until 7pm at the "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home, 600 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston, with a service on Friday, March 15th at 10am at Phillips Memorial Baptist Church, 565 Pontiac Avenue in Cranston. Burial will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed in support of Alzheimer’s research at McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Mail Stop 126, Belmont MA 02478.

Please share memories and condolences at www.WoodlawnRI.com

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