Carole Goldich 1934-2026

Her warmth, strength and radiant spirit touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Carole lived a life filled with compassion, resilience, creativity and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Carole was born Dec. 14, 1934, a daughter of Carl and Angeline Sernel Close.

Carole began her career as a bridal consultant and model, where her natural elegance, beauty and charm shone brightly. Her love for the arts led her to become deeply involved with the Youngstown Playhouse and children’s theater, where she inspired creativity, confidence and joy in countless young performers. Throughout her life, Carole dedicated herself to charitable causes and always sought ways to uplift those around her with kindness, encouragement and generosity.

Together with her husband, Stan, Carole raised four beloved children, Randy, Linda, Sheila and Kimberly.

She faced unimaginable heartbreak with the untimely loss of Randy, Sheila and Kimberly, yet through every hardship, Carole remained a pillar of strength, grace and unconditional love for her family. Her resilience and courage were an inspiration to all who knew her.

Carole found immense joy in her role as a grandmother to Tony Rappaport and his wife, Jacquelyn, and especially treasured the love and laughter of her two great-grandchildren, Tristan and Tyler, who brought endless happiness to her life. She also shared a special bond with her daughter, Linda, and her devoted son-in-law, Dennis Rappaport, proudly supporting him throughout his boxing career and enthusiastically attending his matches.

She is also survived by her loving sister, Marlene Murphy, and brother-in-law, Mickey Murphy; her cherished niece, Sabrina; nephew, Michael; and an extended family who loved her dearly. Carole was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Donna.

For the last 25 years of her life, Carole made her home in New York, where she built a beautiful new chapter filled with friendship, laughter and love. Wherever she went, her vibrant personality, infectious spirit, and genuine compassion left a lasting impression. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel valued, seen, and loved, and her positivity was truly a beacon of light.

Carole leaves behind a legacy defined by love, kindness, resilience, and grace. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the countless memories she created and the enduring impact she made on so many lives. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Calling hours will be from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, 3701 Starr’s Centre Drive, Canfield, Ohio 44406. This will be followed by a funeral service, celebrating Carole’s life, at noon at Rodef Sholom at Tod Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Ave., Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Congregation Ohev Beth Sholom, 1119 Elm St., Youngstown, OH 44505, in Carole’s memory.

This obituary can be viewed and condolences sent to www.higgins-reardon.com.

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