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In Loving Memory Of
Donald Lee Carothers, 90, went to be with our Lord and Savior on November 22, 2024, while in the care of Hospice. He was born July 2, 1934, in Oskaloosa, IA, the son of William E. and Lillian M (Natzel) Carothers.
Donald graduated from Manilla High School in 1952 and attended Westmar College in Le Mars, IA. He graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Arts and taught school in Hospers, IA from 1955 to 1957. When at Westmar he met and married Ruth Loechner and they had two children, Cheryl (Carlton) Tillman and Scott (Linda) Carothers. He has four grandchildren, Joseph (Kimberly) Carothers, Michael Tillman, Nicholas Carothers and Simone Tillman. He has one great grandchild Jane Carothers.
Donald’s dedication to education spanned decades and states. In Naperville, IL, he pursed theological studies while teaching in Downers Grove, where he was elected president of the Illinois Elementary Teachers Association. In 1965, he joined the National Education Association in Washington, DC, where he spent 12 years. He then moved to Houston, TX, to serve as the Executive Director of the Houston Teachers Association.
Later he taught sixth grade in North Miami, FL and continued teaching in Palm Bay, FL until the age of 80. He would teach them how to crochet so that when they were done with their work, they would have something to keep them busy. The students would go on field trips and distribute their lap blankets they crocheted to a local nursing home. He would also take them on field trips to serve at the Loaves and Fishes where they fed the hungry and helped to distribute food to those in need.
Donald was a pillar of his community in Palm Bay, where he became a beloved member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. His faith inspired his active roles as a 4th degree Knight of Columbus, a leader in the Servants of Mary (Servites), and a co-teacher of sixth-grade Faith Formation for countless years. His dedication extended to singing in the choir, prison ministry, and participating in fellowship gatherings. His kindness and service left a lasting impact on all who know him.
Donald will be remembered for his humor, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family and community. He was a man of faith, service and compassion who leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and his devotion of the Lord.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Loaves and Fishes to Our Lady of Grace or a charity of your choice in Donald’s honor.
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We Entrusted Donald Carothers's Care To
Ammen Family Cremation & Funeral Care - Palm Bay
For over 50 years, Ammen Family Cremation and Funeral Care has been a cornerstone of support in Palm Bay, deeply committed to guiding families through their grief with personalized funeral and cremation services. Our range of offerings, from simple cremations to full-service funerals, honors the unique lives of the departed, reflecting each individual's wishes and personality....
Learn more(321) 214-7110
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