Carolyn C. McFadden

Carolyn C. McFadden, 76, of Rockford and Springfield passed away December 7, 2015 at her residence after a long struggle with cancer. Carol was born October 13, 1939 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Bloomington, IL, the daughter of Louis H. and Alice P. McFadden.

She graduated from St. Agnes Grade School and Sacred Heart Academy. She received her bachelor's degree from Quincy College and received her master's degree in Social Work from St. Louis University. She attained certification as a Registered Social Worker. She worked in many youth and adult programs throughout the State. Carol loved spending time with family, and they loved being with her. She was loved for many special and unique reasons, including her sage advice dispensed during lengthy, and often late night discussions on current events, politics and religion, the distinctive Christmas presents that everyone mostly looked forward to receiving, her ability to break all land speed records when trying to get to Mass and family events on time, her delicious Swiss Steak recipe, getting her "Irish up" whenever appropriate and, of course, the constant competition between her many nephews to do whatever it would take to be considered "the favorite nephew." But mostly, Carol was loved because of who she was, strong in the face of adversity, independent in her approach to life, generous to all and always caring to others. Carol lived life by her own rules, and was ready and willing to meet her Savior. She will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, James L. McFadden.

She is survived by her companion, Leonard DuCharme of Loves Park, IL; siblings, Kathleen (husband, Thomas) Coonan of El Segundo, CA and Joseph (companion, Sheila) McFadden of Springfield; nieces and nephews, Terry (wife, Katia), Tim, and Dan (wife, Donna) Coonan, Brian (wife, Adele) McFadden, Kate (husband, Jim) Pinkelman, Kevin (wife, Amy) McFadden, Nora (husband, Neal) Gervais, Mike (wife, Missy) McFadden, and Dennis (wife, Emma) Coonan; and several great-nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 9:30 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 245 N. Amos St., Springfield.

Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Rev. Robert Jallas, celebrant.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery

Memorial contributions may be made to: American Cancer Society, 675 E. Linton Ave., Springfield, IL 62703.