Carol Austin Chapman, a caring and giving woman who touched the lives of many, passed away on March 14, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on January 17, 1934, in Columbus, Ohio, Carol was the eldest daughter of John H.K. and Elizabeth B. Austin. Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, she was surrounded by her loving sisters, Jane and Lynette, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She never forgot her roots in Columbus. Carol frequently visited her beloved Ohio family.

Carol's passion for music ignited early in life. She dedicated many years to studying piano at the prestigious Peabody Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, the first music conservatory in the United States. After marrying and raising her children, Carol further honed her skills in organ performance at The Catholic University of America, School of Music, in Washington, D.C. Her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication propelled her to become an accomplished pianist and organist.

Beyond her musical pursuits, Carol also embarked on a fulfilling career in nursing. She graduated from the University of Maryland, School of Nursing, in June 1954, becoming a Registered Nurse. Her remarkable career as a Registered Nurse culminated in her earning the prestigious credentials of Certified Operating Room Nurse. Carol retired from nursing as a surgical nurse supervisor at St. Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia.

Carol's adventurous spirit and passion for travel left an indelible mark on her life. She embarked on numerous journeys around the world, creating unforgettable memories and sharing her experiences with others. Her great-nephew John credits her with inspiring his love for travel.

Throughout her life, Carol traveled extensively across the United States, living in various states from coast to coast. In her retirement years, she found solace in Georgia, where she spent many happy years living near her niece Susan and her children. Later, she relocated to Florida to live with her daughter and son-in-law.

Carol's legacy as a caring and loving woman, a gifted musician, and a dedicated nurse will continue to shape the lives of those who loved her. Her life was a testament to her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit, and her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew her.

Carol, beloved mother, sister, and aunt, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her daughter, Karen A. Chapman; her son- in-law, Richard D. Fowlkes; her son, Mark S. Chapman; her sister, Jane A. Scholtes (William); her nieces, Mimi S. Gregory (Mike), Susan S. Peters (Craig), and Wanda Karen Chapman; her great-nephews, John B. Peters (engaged to Ryleigh), and Chad M. Gregory; and her great-niece, Caroline J. Ditommasso (Mattia).

Carol is preceded in death by her mother and father, her sister Lynette K. Austin, her former husband, Edwin K. Chapman, her nephew Warren A. Chapman, and her niece Amy S. Metz.

In lieu of flowers, Carol's family requests that any memorials be made to a local animal rescue or shelter of the donor's choice, as she had an unwavering passion for her beloved dogs.

Upon her death, arrangements for Carol were entrusted to Clary-Glenn Funeral Home in Freeport, Florida.

Carol's visitation and memorial service will be held at McKoon Funeral Home in Newnan, Georgia. Visitation will be held on November 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with the memorial service starting at 11:00 AM.

Carol's final resting place will be with her parents and sister at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens in Timonium, Maryland. Her cremains will be escorted by Leslie and Ronald Cole to the cemetery in Maryland later this year, where a private inurnment service will be held.