Carol Schaeffer

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Carol Ann Schaeffer, a devoted wife and mother, a gifted artist, and lifelong lover of the arts, who passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the age of 82

Born and raised in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, Carol carried the vibrant energy of the city with her wherever she went. From a young age, she was captivated by the magic of Broadway—the lights, the music, the stories that lived on stage. That passion never waned and became a thread woven throughout her life, and a love she passed along to each of her children and grandchildren.

A proud alumna of Cornell University, Carol pursued her education with curiosity and determination, ultimately earning her master’s degree. She went on to become a dedicated teacher, working with some of the most challenging students, inspiring those around her with her intelligence, creativity, and compassion. Her classroom, like her home, was a space of encouragement, where ideas could flourish.

Outside of her career, Carol found profound joy in crafting. Her hands brought to life beautiful works of art—delicate, expressive, and filled with meaning. Whether through thread, paper, beading or mixed media, she created pieces that spoke to her boundless imagination and attention to detail. Every creation was infused with love and a touch of dramatic detail aimed to best highlight the attributes of the recipient.

Carol’s greatest role was that of a mother and Mima. She was a constant source of love, strength, and wisdom to her children, Steve and Lori, and her grandchildren, Ashleigh, Noah, and Courtney who carry forward her legacy with pride and grace. She was their biggest cheerleader, their steady guide, and their dearest friend, always ready with a sarcastic quip and the giver of sound advice in uncharted waters. She also dearly loved her cat, Maestro, who she spoiled rotten with more toys and treats than any cat should have.

Carol will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and her endless passion for the things—and the people—she loved. She is survived by her husband, Dr. David Schaeffer, her son, Steven (Tammy) Schaeffer, and daughter Lori (Mike) Acree, and grandchildren Ashleigh, Noah, Courtney and Ryan. She leaves behind a life well-lived and hearts forever grateful to have known her.

A celebration of her life will be held by her family at 5pm on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Champaign Chapel, 710 N. Neil Street Champaign, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to the Dementia Society of America.

Please join Carol’s family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneral home.com

Floral arrangements may be sent to the funeral home.

Cremation arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Champaign Chapel 710 N. Neil Street Champaign, Illinois 61820.