Carol Ann Briggs

Carol Briggs of Wake Forest, NC entered into rest at her home following a brief but valiant battle with cancer. Born Carol Ann Banko in Buffalo, NY and most affectionately known as Mom or Gram, she is survived by her children Joel “Chris” Briggs, Andrea “Andii” Briggs (John Copeland), and Jeanette Powell, Joe Powell, grandchildren Rebecca Powell and Michelle Powell, ex-husband Joel Briggs, nephew Jamie Stopinski and sister-in-law Anna ”Nancy” Stopinski. She is pre-deceased by her brothers, Walter Stopinski and Henry Stopinski.

Carol was a hard working, independent woman. Following 15 years of marriage, she worked her way through college as a waitress and earned her degree in psychology. She was dedicated to providing job training to youth through her primary career as an admissions representative for Ohio Diesel Technical Institute. Never one to sit still for long, she assumed the status of semi-retired upon leaving ODTI and worked for many more years before finally retiring at age 72. Carol’s cheesecake and cookies were the centerpiece of every family gathering. She loved the beach, crossword puzzles, bird and wildlife watching, gardening and was an avid reader who nurtured a love of books and learning in her children and grandchildren.

Family visitation and a joyous celebration of Carol’s life will be held fireside at the Powell Plantation, 1274 Woodland Church Road, Wake Forest, NC from 12:00 – 4:00 pm on Saturday, January 5, 2013. A private service for immediate family will be held at a later date.

Carol and her family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Medders and Theresa of Capitol ENT and all the wonderful staff at Hospice for their care and support throughout Carol’s rapid decline in health. In lieu of flowers, please read a book to a small child or send donations to Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice Cir. Raleigh, NC 27605.

Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary's St. Raleigh.