Carole Ann DePaola

Carole DePaola was born on January 18, 1943, and grew up in Orange Village, Ohio. After graduating from Orange High School, she continued her education, earning a bachelor's degree from Miami University and a master's degree from The Ohio State University.

For more than thirty years, Carole was an elementary school teacher in the Southwestern City School District. She loved helping her students explore nature and cherished the relationships she built with her fellow teachers. In addition to her work in the classroom, she served as a mentor teacher, supporting the professional development of countless educators throughout the district.

Carole was a force of nature who believed that nothing was more important than protecting democracy.  She worked tirelessly for the Ohio Democratic Party, the Franklin County Democratic Party and for hundreds of candidates for local, state and national office.  She was a founding member of the Ohio Democratic Party Women's Caucus and a tireless advocate for the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment.  Her dedication to making our community a better place led her to organize the early vote operations of the Franklin County Democratic Party for more than twenty years.  She was honored as the Franklin County Democrat of the Year in 2026.

Throughout her life, Carole sought opportunities to serve others. While her love for the community began in her classroom, her passion for public service inspired her to advocate for policies she believed would strengthen the lives of all Ohioans, including voter registration and access, education funding and reform, public transit, and environmental protection.

Above all, Carole believed that making the world a better place was both a responsibility and a privilege. She dedicated her life to service and to strengthening democracy, firmly believing that every citizen should vote.  Her energy, determination, and generosity touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on her community.

Carole was preceded in death by her father Michael DePaola (1968) and her mother Doris Fricke DePaola (2003).  She is survived by her sister, Barbara de Jong (John); her niece, Claire Shim (David); her nephew, Martin de Jong (Eleanor); her great niece, Audrey; and her great nephews Michael de Jong, Andrew de Jong and Luke de Jong.

A celebration of her life will be held on August 15, 2026 at 6 pm at the Lashutka Event Center located at Griggs Reservoir, 3479 Riverside Dr. Upper Arlington.  Donations in her honor may be made to the women's organization of your choice.

Arrangements by O'SHAUGHNESSY COMPANY, please call 614-221-2311 with any questions.

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