Mary Ann Carroll

Mary Ann Carroll, aged 80, peacefully joined her parents and siblings in heaven on August 25th, 2023.  She was born in Bridgeport, CT, the youngest of five children to the late Gladys Ward Robling and Frederick Robling. Mary Ann held cherished memories of her childhood in Fairfield. She was a dedicated student, proudly part of the first class to graduate eighth grade from St. Thomas Aquinas School and later earning her diploma from Roger Ludlowe High School.

In 1965, Mary Ann married her late ex-husband Robert F. Carroll, Jr. The couple initially resided in Bridgeport before returning to Fairfield, where they lovingly raised their two children Coleen Carroll Lane and Robert F. Carroll III.  As a stay at home mom she also served as a boy scout leader, sunday school teacher and eucharist minister along with her husband, Bob, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church. She volunteered at Birthright, hosted gatherings such as Avon and Tupperware parties to have some adult conversation and help manage expenses.

Later, as her children grew and entered school full-time, Mary Ann reentered the workforce.  She filled various secretary and receptionist positions throughout her career, with a notable highlight being her role as department secretary at Sacred Heart University, an institution from which both her and her children graduated.  Her interactions with faculty and her genuine concern for students, particularly those far from home defined her time there.

Mom’s final job where she retired from, was at Light Sources in Orange. She was the receptionist and enjoyed welcoming visitors and staff into the building. Even in her retirement, her caring nature was shared with patients at Griffin Hospital where she volunteered.

She also loved watching All My Children, One Life to Live and General Hospital soap operas in her later years, talking with her neighbors at her condo complex and at senior housing and walking her dog, Fawn. She loved shopping for the best bargain at Bradlees, Caldors and Sears and enjoyed word search puzzles. And, throughout the years enjoyed her ice cream and visiting Carvel with her children when they were younger year-round.  She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Coleen of Derby, her “favorite” son, Rob of New Haven (Mike Nigro) and her treasured granddaughter Emily of Naugatuck (Dave Whitman).  She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins who held a special place in her heart.  Mary Ann was predeceased in death by her parents Gladys and Frederick and her siblings Frederick Robling, Gladys Schuler, Alice Robling, and Pattie Babstock.

Family and Friends are invited to honor Mary Ann’s life by attending a visitation at 9am and followed by  a service at 10am on September 9th, 2023 at the Spear Miller Funeral Home located at 39 S Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824.

Coleen and Rob would like to express their gratitude to the caring staff at Gardner Heights Health Care Center/Apple Rehab in Shelton and Constellations Hospice Agency for their care of our mom in her final days.

In her memory, contributions may be made to The Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport, a cause that resonates with Mary Ann’s passion for aiding students and her connection to the Bridgeport community, by mailing donations to 1718 Capitol Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 or visiting their website at www.ccgb.org .