Carrol Paulson

Carrol (Smith) Paulson, age 87, of Madison, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, at the Agrace HospiceCare Inpatient Unit in Fitchburg.

Born in Morrisonville, Illinois, on June 25,1938, to Clarence and Amy Smith, Carrol lived a life marked by love, devotion, and family. On December 26, 1959, she married LaVerne Paulson of Blanchardville, Wisconsin, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 48 years.

Carrol was a proud and loving mother to: Deborah Pirus (Greg), Doug (Peggy) Paulson, Brenda (Dale) Hrobsky, Sandy (Mohamed) Abourehab, and Scott (Cynthia) Wirth. She was a grandmother to: Amber and Mallory Pirus, Michelle Hilke, Robert Friemoth, Dale (Jayme) Hrobsky, III, Jacob (Yazmin) Wilkinson, Kyle (Lauren) Wilkinson, Becca (Patrick) Reid, Zachary (Madison) Wirth. Jana, Ahmed, Moaaz Abourehab. Cherished by her many great and great-great grandkids: Cody Goodenow, Madalyn and Brinley Friemoth and Addison Isley. Willow and Sawyer Hrobsky, Ethan Bratz. Renee and Makenzie Reid.

From 1974 to 1978, Carrol played an integral role in the family business, Mom’s Kitchen in Lake Mills, working alongside Vern and their children. After her time at the restaurant, she pursued further education in accounting and embarked on a rewarding career with the Internal Revenue Service, where she remained until her retirement. Even in retirement, Carrol stayed active, working part-time at Handleman Company.

Carrol had a deep affection for card and board games, which brought joy and laughter to countless gatherings at the family home. Her children, grandchildren, and friends often joined her around the table for spirited games and treasured memories. Her competitive spirit and love of winning added an extra layer of fun to every match.

A devoted mother, Carrol was always ready to lend a helping hand—whether babysitting, assisting with household tasks, or simply being present for her loved ones. Her passion for travel took her across the United States, often accompanied by one or more of her children or extended family members.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who supported Carrol through the challenges of recent years. A special thank you goes to Agrace HospiceCare and the dedicated staff who provided compassionate care during her final days.

A Celebration of Life, followed by a luncheon, will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5202 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison.

All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services of Madison is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.866allfaiths.com.