Carol Leighton, age 75, of Winter Haven, FL, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family. Born on September 7, 1949, in Somerset, PA, she was the daughter of Clarence Daniel and Thelma May Hammond Lake. In 1973, Carol made her home in Florida after moving from Lewiston, Maine. She dedicated 35 years of service as a Network Manager at Dundee Elementary School before enjoying a well-earned retirement.

Carol’s greatest joys were her family and her pets. She had a special place in her heart for children, especially her grandchildren, and was devoted to her cats, Sophie, Simmy, Sporty, and Ben Ben. She loved celebrating the holidays, decorating her home with passion and enthusiasm. Known for her great sense of humor, confidence, honesty, and strong personality, Carol had a gift for laughter and a sharp wit.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, David Lake. She is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Lawrence “Larry” Jon Leighton; sons, Jon (Janene) Leighton of Santa Rosa, CA, and Todd (Melissa) Leighton of Lake Wales, FL; daughter, Lori Leighton of Celebration, FL; her siblings, Richard Lake of FL and Patty (Dave) Kerns of PA; and her cherished grandchildren, Abby, Tori, Todd-Michael, Kailyn, and Caroline, step-grandchildren Kayla, Sarah, Andrea & Conner and great-grandchildren Ava & Dax. 

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 9:30 am, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 am, both at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Haines City, FL. Interment will follow at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL, where Carol will be laid to rest.