Carol Sue Shortsleeve, age 79, passed away peacefully at her home on February 27, 2025, following a brief illness. She was born on December 5, 1945, in Watseka, IL, to Arthur and Delores Hewitt. On October 2, 1965, she married Richard Shortsleeve, with whom she shared 59 years.

 

Carol dedicated her career to education, serving as a beloved teacher at Donovan Elementary School. A longtime member of Donovan Methodist Church, she found joy in her faith and community. After retiring, she became an avid quilter, always eager to share her beautiful creations with friends and family. Whether visiting loved ones or heading to a doctor’s appointment, she never missed an opportunity to bring along a quilt to show. Carol also had a deep appreciation for nature, finding peace in her daily walks outdoors.

 

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Richard (Jamie) Shortsleeve, Christine (Ralph) Waldo, and Carrie (Eric) Little. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren—Ty and Aaron Shortsleeve; Peyton and Emerson Waldo; Ava, Zachary, and Andrea Little; Orlando and Jaydon Casey, and Sawyer Shortsleeve—and a cherished great-grandmother to Amelia Shortsleeve.

 

Carol is also survived by her sisters, Linda Kohl and Mae Skidmore. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Ashley Casey, and her brother David Hewitt.

 

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka, Illinois. There will be a graveside service at 1:30 p.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Watseka.

 

Carol’s kindness, creativity, and love for family will be deeply missed. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

 

Please share a memory of Carol at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.