Carol Lucy Bowen Sockwell

Carol Bowen Sockwell June 11, 1935 - April 7, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carol Lucy Bowen Sockwell, who peacefully departed from this world after a long illness on April 7, 2024, at her residence in Toledo, Ohio. Carol was born in Bridgeton, New Jersey on June 11, 1935, to Everett Bowen and Thelma (Acton) Bowen.

Her devoted husband of over 67 years, Merald A. Sockwell was at her side. The couple exchanged vows at United Methodist Church, Bridgeton, New Jersey on September 8, 1956. This began their remarkable journey together. A lovely backyard reception followed at her parents' home. Merald, Carol's high school sweetheart, was captivated by her beautiful blue eyes from the moment they met in a high school class.

Carol was an extraordinary athlete during her high school years, excelling in basketball, tennis, and field hockey. Her competitive spirit and determination were evident, especially in field hockey where she instilled fear in her opponents with her fierce desire to win. Even after high school, she continued her passion for field hockey in a semi-professional league.

After completing her education as an X-ray technician, Carol began her career at Bridgetown Hospital, where she provided compassionate care to patients. Her dedication to healthcare extended into clinical practice, where she took pride in her contributions to the well-being of those she served.

Throughout her life, Carol provided unwavering love and support to her family as they journeyed through various locations, including New Jersey, West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, and Delaware. For over 25 years, she found solace and joy in their Delaware home by the water, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

As a faithful first mate, Carol joined Merald on family sailboats, sailing the waters of the Atlantic, Chesapeake, Hudson, and Lake Erie.

A voracious reader, Carol had a passion for literature and spent countless hours at her favorite bookstore, Browse About, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Her book recommendations were cherished by family and friends alike. Carol also had a green thumb and took pleasure in cultivating plants and flowers, particularly her prized African Violets and Orchids, which added warmth to each of her homes.

Her love of travel took her to various destinations around the globe, including London, Paris, Portugal, Canada, and Mexico. Trips to Cancun became an annual tradition, and she and Merald embarked on adventures to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Alaska.

Carol enjoyed games of all kinds, whether on the tennis court, with family, or at the bridge table, where she relished the competition and the thrill of victory. This competitive spirit is a legacy she passed down to her children and grandchildren.

Carol is survived by her three children, Linda Carol (Lester) Nail of South Carolina, Allen (Leslie) Sockwell of Texas, and Sherri (Charley) Guldi of Michigan, as well as nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Mary Jane Cordrey.

Years ago, Carol wrote a poem entitled My Angel.

An angel waves from high above and tells me of our Father’s love.

I bow my head, drop to my knees, and ask her if it's time to leave.

She tells me no it's not my time, but will I spread His message wide?

I tell her of my love for Him, my prayers when I talk to Him.

My angel holds her hands up high and says it's time to say goodbye.

Don’t go I plead, let me come too, to which she says your work’s not through.

Look up above and you will see our Lord is looking down at thee.

I hear Him say “I send my love, and I will see you up above.”

By Carol Sockwell

Her work now through, her angel has taken her home. Carol's departure leaves a void in our hearts, but her memory will be cherished, and her legacy will live on in the lives of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace.

The family is deeply grateful for the love and care provided by the staff and community of Ohio Living at Swan Creek and Ohio Living Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations to St. Jude’s Hospital for Children.

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