Carol Theresa Kirk

Born in Utica on Christmas Day 1932, Carol was the only child of the late Phillip and Mary (Scalise) Gaetano. She was raised and educated in Utica, graduating from T.R. Proctor High School. Carol began her work career at General Electric on Kent Street, where she met her beloved husband, Dean C. Kirk. They were married on June 23, 1956 and enjoyed a union of 50 years until his passing on September 5, 2006. They were blessed with four children.

Carol served as a secretary in various lines of work. Most of her career was spent as a secretary in the Nursing Service Department of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Utica, NY, a position from which she would retire. Carol also served as the President of Blessed Sacrament School Mothers Club.

In 1998 Carol and Dean relocated to Raleigh, NC to join all of their children. Her children and grandchildren were her everything and she loved nothing better than to be in their presence. She loved to cook and bake for them and was always excited when she was given a special request. She spent many years attending her children and grandchildren’s football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, track and field, cheerleading, Lacrosse, Taekwondo, Equestrian, Gymnastics and Dance events….phew! All of which made her so happy. Carol never missed a milestone with her children or grandchildren and was ready for any adventure they threw her way. Beach trips, lake trips, and cruises were among her favorite family gatherings.

Carol enjoyed volunteering for Catholic Parish Outreach and baking for the Ronald McDonald House. Although she loved being in North Carolina with her family, she always called Utica home. She reminisced about large family gatherings, good food and lots of laughs.

She is survived by her loving children, Deborah DiPierro and the late Michael DiPierro, Stephen Kirk, Sharon and Bill Carroll and Brian Kirk as well as seven cherished grandchildren, Michael and Matthew DiPierro, Joshua Kirk, Morgan and Madison Kirk, Olivia and Aliza Carroll. She also leaves many special cousins and friends. Carol was predeceased by her parents, all of her aunts and uncles and several cousins.

A Memorial Mass for Carol was held Monday, April 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 11401 Leesville Rd, Raleigh, NC 27613.

Donations can be made to her favorite charity St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, by using the link below, under 'Donations'.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory/story of Carol or a message of condolence to her family, you may do so below within 'Add a Memory'.