Carolyn Harklerode 1941-2025

Carolyn was born March 1, 1941, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Earl and Elizabeth DelBene Theodore, and was a lifelong area resident. She was a graduate of The Rayen High School, attended Youngstown State University and later graduated from St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing.

Carolyn began her career as a registered nurse at the former Northside Hospital, where she worked from 1960 to 1964. She later was employed by Windsor House Inc. from 1972 until 2003. Following her nursing career, she worked in public relations for Lane Ambulance Company before joining Lane Funeral Home, where she created and developed an aftercare program to support families coping with grief, retiring in 2016.

Outgoing and deeply committed to helping others, Carolyn volunteered with the American Red Cross as a blood drive recruiter, worked with hospice and was involved with Make Today Count, a community health campaign.

She loved cooking and music, and most importantly, spending time with her family and friends. She especially looked forward to trips to Geneva-on-the-Lake and time spent at Berlin Lake.

Her husband, Gerald Harklerode, whom she married Aug. 3, 1963, preceded her in death in 1990.

Carolyn is survived by her children, Lisa (Michael) Rohan of Columbiana, Gerald Tod (Ileen) Harklerode of Columbus and Lori (Ralph) Delserone of Columbiana; eight grandchildren, Michael, Alyssa (David), Leah, Cole (Cassie), Elizabeth, Sofia (Ben), Todd and Isabella; and one great-grandson, Angelo. She also leaves her sister, Mary Ann Valley of Canfield, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Carolyn was preceded in death by her sister, Shirley Coleman; a nephew, Kevin Coleman; a great-granddaughter, Daphne Lynn; and a brother-in-law, John Valley.

Friends may call noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at Lane Funeral Home, Canfield Chapel, with a time of sharing to follow.

The family requests material tributes to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

(special notice)