Cathy Carroll

Cathy was born November 1, 1950, in Santa Maria California. Cathy was one of three daughters of MW & Lucille Morecraft. She graduated High School and went to vocational school to become a LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse).

Her first relationship was not successful but it did produce the best thing that ever happened to Cathy, her beloved daughter, Lisa Dawn Shandler. Lisa was Cathy’s one and only child. She was born September 4, 1972 in Delano Ca. Lisa was the light of Cathy’s life. Lisa was born with a congenital heart defect and she was not expected to live passed early childhood or infancy. Cathy’s love, expertise and constant care, Lisa lived to the age of 25. She passed away on her birthday September 4th, 1997. Cathy said Lisa left this world on her own Birthday because she didn’t want her mom to have to remember one more date and she would only be really sad on 1 day of the year. Lisa was a very thoughtful and loving child. This was very much due to her loving upbringing.

Cathy met Bill Carroll, fell in love and they were married when Lisa was a young child. Bill became the father to Lisa that she needed and loved. Cathy and Bill remained married until Bill’s sudden death January 21st, 2006. He was placed to rest in the Garden of Serenity at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Cathy will be placed to rest beside him.

Cathy was an LVN, anyone that knew her in that role would agree that she was a very hard worker and loved helping her patients. She strived to be the best nurse and co-worker she could be. She expected the best from herself and others. Cathy worked mainly at Kern Medical Center in the emergency Room and later on in the surgery clinic. She made many friends and helped train many residents over her years there.

Cathy was an amazing cook. She cooked for everyone and made gifts from her baked goods. She cooked everything from Kung pau Chicken to buttermilk pancakes. She also made cook books with her favorite recipes for special friends. These were priceless gifts from her.

Cathy was injured with a broken leg about 15yrs ago. The injury did not heal correctly. She also had a hip replacement that did not heal well and needed a revision. The combined issues put Cathy in a wheelchair. She remained wheelchair bound until her death.

After Bill passed away, Cathy moved into a small place with her sister Pat for a while. It was small, but they made it work. Cathy eventually moved to an apartment on Ming Ave. There she met wonderful neighbors, such as Maurice, they became & remain the dearest of friends. She never failed to give the kids in the complex presents and treats on special occasions. She was loved there especially by the children. Circumstances had it that Cathy fell in her apartment a few years ago and was no longer able to live on her own. She eventually moved to an assisted living facility she called home. She made dear friends at Jasmine Terrace and they became like family. Her roommate Jackie and her became fast friends and even went on outings. There she met Candy, the activity director and overall friend and liaison to the residents. The two became fast friends and Cathy loved Candy very much. The facility

won a medal at playing volley ball at the senior games last year with Cathy heading the team. She was very competitive!! She loved to play dominos on Sunday afternoon with anyone that would let her win! Our friend Cathy did not like to lose! Cathy was a gamer, she loved to play games and even called a few games of bingo. Cathy loved to gamble and went on quite a few road trips to Las Vegas and “State Line”, she even spent Lisa’s 21St Birthday in Las Vegas! They had a blast! A trip to remember what happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas. They may have come up with that phase originally!

Cathy was diagnosed with Lung Cancer 3 weeks before her death. She was in severe pain prior to and after the diagnosis. She was scared, but said she was ready to join Lisa and Bill. Cathy wrote a short poem for Lisa’s funeral service and ironically, it is very fitting for Cathy. It read:

Like a bird…

Caged by her imperfect body…

Lisa was unable to soar…

Now uncaged…

She is free to fly…

Free to soar and high as she will…

Mom

Cathy is free to fly, free to soar with Lisa as high as they will!

No more pain, no more limitations rest in peace dear sweet Cathy!