Carole R. Kelly

Carole (Paladino) Kelly passed away peacefully on November 13th, with her son and daughter by her side. Born on May 12, 1939, in Worcester to Carmela (Gentile) and Francis Paladino, she was the middle child of seven. Carole was a loving and devoted daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and teacher.

She spent her early years surrounded by the warmth and joyful noise of a large Italian American family. Carole often reminisced about the happiness she felt growing up among her siblings and cousins, and the long summer days she spent at Lake Park.

After graduating from St. Stephen’s High School in 1957, Carole entered the Sisters of Saint Joseph, where she earned her teaching degree from Elms College. There she discovered her calling as a lifelong educator. Carole’s faith was the pillar of her life; in times of struggle or hardship, she placed everything in God’s hands.

After 11 years in religious life, Carole left the order and married the love of her life, Tim. Together, they shared 34 beautiful years of marriage and raised their family in Holden. They were united by devotion to family, a wonderful sense of humor, and an appreciation for the simple joys of life—whether it was a “quick” stop at Spag’s, summer trips to Saratoga or the Cape, or visits to Narragansett to see their dear friends Mickey and Jerry. They truly loved their life together.

Carole spent nearly 33 years as a preschool and elementary teacher in Connecticut and Worcester, earning a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from Worcester State. After retiring, she continued to give of herself—teaching ESL, volunteering with hospice, participating in the Grandparents Prayer Circle, remaining an active member of St. George’s Parish, and embracing her happiest role of all: Grammy to her five beloved grandchildren.

Carole is survived by her loving son, Timothy, and his wife, Tara Kelly; her devoted daughter, Frances Apostolopoulos, and her husband, Errol; and her five cherished grandchildren—Errol, TJ, Finn, Cameron, and her “sweetheart,” Faith. She also leaves behind her beloved sisters: Margaret Barry and her husband John, Connie Cooney, Frances Fitzpatrick and James Gallagher, and Dona DeSantis and her husband Louis; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Timothy Kelly; her sister, Delores Paladino Peters; and her brother, Salvatore Paladino.

We will forever miss Carole, but we take solace in knowing she is at peace. Her generosity of spirit, contagious laugh, and bright eyes and smile will live on in all who loved her. As her faith reminds us, love does not die—it lives on for eternity. School’s out, Carole. Fly high with the angels.

Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 10:00 am in St. George’s Roman Catholic Church, 38 Brattle St., Worcester. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester. There are no calling hours. MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Care Dimensions, Suite B-102, 75 Sylvan Street, Danvers, MA 01923.