Carolyn J. Anders, known to most as “Carol,” passed away quietly in her daughter’s home on Sunday, April 25, 2021. She was 74 at the time of her passing.
Born on Sept. 6, 1946, in Rochester, she was the daughter of the late Delbert and Sylvia Good Griffith. She was a 1964 graduate of Pierceton High School. Later, she attended college in Hawaii and went on to graduate from Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne.
Carol was an ardent supporter of education and spent more than 30 years as a speech and debate coach. In her tenure, she was recognized as a Diamond Level Coach and earned a position in the IHSFA Hall of Fame. Few things meant more to Carol than helping her students reach their goals, often building up the underdog as a mentor and coach. Her selflessness and dedication is well-known in state and national speech circles.
Perhaps the only thing more meaningful to Carol than her time in education was her family. Carol loved time spent with her kids and grandchildren. She was an active member of First Christian Church, Warsaw, and is remembered for her plucky personality. She is also remembered as a journalist and contributing columnist to several publications, including the Warsaw Times-Union.
Those who survive with memories to cherish include children: Lisa Grotemat, of Fort Wayne; Audrey (Edward) Dempsey, of Pierceton; Adam (Jaci) Anders, of Warsaw; Gregory Anders, of Warsaw; and Kathryn (Rob Jeffery) Anders, of Warsaw; 11 grandchildren: Alex, Beth (husband, Nick), Rachel, Kylee, Dailyn, Issac, Sylvia, Randal, Adaline, Amelia and Gavin; and two great-grandchildren: Easton and Cole. Also surviving is her brother, Robert (Lessie) Griffith, of DeRidder, La.
A Life Celebration® is planned with the assistance of Titus Funeral Home, 2000 E. Sheridan St., Warsaw, where visitation will be held on Thursday, April 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. A funeral which celebrates Carol’s life will take place on Friday, April 30 beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Pastor Matthew Rodgers will lead the service with burial to follow in Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.
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Memorial gifts may be directed to Premier Hospice who provided capable and compassionate care to Carol in her final days.
Gifts may be mailed to 10315 Dawsons Creek Blvd, Suite J, Fort Wayne, IN 46825.
