Carole Jean Midgette

Carole Jean Midgette, 82, of Chester, beloved mother and best of friends, passed from this earth the evening of August 10th, 2020. Her four children and wonderful nurse were with her.

She was born on April 27, 1938, in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. The thirteenth of 13 children, she was “Kay” to her parents and siblings, all of whom preceded her in death.

Carole grew up “in the sticks” of western Pennsylvania, and really did walk to school in the snow uphill both ways. The family later moved to Michigan, where she graduated from Airport Community High in Carleton. She loved singing, music, art and P.E., playing basketball for her school. She was a talented singer and described in her senior yearbook as “a bundle of mischief and an ocean of smiles.” An apt description her entire life.

She survived abdominal tumors at two and bone-shattering traumatic injuries at 23. Told she would never walk again, she defied the expectations—then and throughout her life. Although she insisted that 70 was long enough for anyone to live, she passed that mark by 12 years. She faced each challenge with strength, humor and grace. She didn’t complain about circumstances, she persisted. She will be missed every second of every day and the intervals in between.

Carole had four children, whom she loved beyond words. Being a mother was her proudest and most fulfilling experience. She loved unconditionally, and she herself was the greatest gift her children ever received. After divorce, she reared her children alone. To them she imparted her love of writing, art, and music, insistence on fair play, and commitment to doing what is right, instead of what is easy. Honesty was paramount. She couldn’t stand a “liar, cheat or thief”, but she loved birds and Bambi, gnomes, Dennis the Menace, and babies photographed by Anne Geddes. Well, babies in general. And, of course, the Pillsbury Doughboy. She never asked for anything but fairness and was content with simple pleasures, but she knew how to delight and surprise with the gifts she gave others.

The pandemic made it impossible for many to visit, but she appreciated your calls, texts and messages. Her last days were made more pleasant thanks to visits from—and memories of—people she held dear to her heart: Faye and Roger, Phyllis and Rhonda, Ronnie and Melissa, Sharon and "Plumber", “Little” Louis, Clay, Elizabeth, Preston, Camden and Eliana Joy. She deeply missed and spoke often of her sister, Dot, who passed two years ago, and her many friends and close family who preceded her in death.

Carole wanted her friends and family—near and far—to know she loved you all.

She is survived by her son, Darrell, and her three daughters: Terri Barber and husband Michael, of Ruther Glen; Kelli Midgette, of Petersburg; and Melody Midgette, of Chester; her granddaughter, Ellena; and many, many beloved nieces and nephews across the U.S., from Virginia to California.

The family would like to convey their special gratitude to her nurse, Elizabeth Stanley Trail, who went above and beyond to help our Mom. Elizabeth provided love, comfort, and care we wish all people had when in need, and we are especially thankful that at the end, our Mom had it in abundance. Elizabeth was, and continues to be, a godsend.

Last—but never least—Darrell, Terri, and Kelli wish to thank their sister Melody. She was Mom’s devoted caregiver for many years, the fiercest and most resolute advocate for her wellbeing. Melody’s continuous care allowed Mom to remain healthier and active longer than Mom thought possible, and the dignity and peace to end her days at home as she wished, surrounded by the people she loved and who loved her. We love you and thank you, Mel. More than you know and more than we show.

Carole insisted on cremation without ceremony, so there will be no chapel or graveside service. A visitation will be held for those who wish to remember her with the family and say a final farewell, on August 28th, from 3pm–6pm, at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, in Chester, Virginia.

Rather than flowers, please consider a contribution to your favorite charity, or one of hers—Disabled American Veterans, the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Christmas Mother program, the Salvation Army—or donate blood via the American Red Cross (formerly Virginia Blood Services) and be sure to tell your family that you love them.
Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com .