Dr. Carol Popejoy Wilson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carol Wilson, who left us peacefully at home with family on March 6, 2025, at the age of 83. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Born on July 2, 1941, in Bloomington, Illinois, Carol was the beloved daughter of Ira and Dorothy Popejoy. She was also a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, granny and friend. Carol's journey was one of love, achievement, and inspiration. Her kind, gentle, loving ways always touched those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Carol graduated from Edgewater High School before attending the University of Florida. She earned a bachelor's degree in marketing and business at UF and was a proud Gator cheerleader and a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. After her college graduation, she went on to work for the Coca-Cola Company and then Florida Technical University which later became the University of Central Florida. She taught marketing courses there while continuing her own education. Thanks to a supportive family and her own ambition, she obtained an MBA from Rollins College Crummer School of Business and a PhD from the University of Florida College of Business. Her personal and impressive academic accomplishments led her to become Dean of Students at UCF which she enjoyed immensely. She was passionate with educating and supporting young people in obtaining their education. She was particularly proud to represent the University at the Central Florida Education Consortium for Women. Through this role, Carol mentored and empowered countless young women, shaping their futures with wisdom and kindness. A list of all of Carol's professional achievements would fill pages, a testament to her dedication, leadership, and tireless work ethic!

One of the most beautiful chapters of Carol's life began 71 years ago when she met the love of her life, "Skip" Wilson. Their paths first crossed when they were in 8th grade at Howard Junior High, they were 13 years old. Carol invited Skip to a hayride at her family home. From that moment on, their bond started and was built on laughter, faith and unwavering support for each other. They were married on April 9th,1966, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion. Carol and Skip shared many beautiful years together, raising a son and supporting each other's dreams. Carol's greatest pride and joy though was always her son Jay. He was truly the light of her life, and her love for him shined brightly in everything she did.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Carol was known for her dedication to her community. This was always very important to her, giving back. She proudly served on the OUC board for many years and was a dedicated member of the prestigious Roselind Club of Orlando, which brought her great joy and a sense of community. Her involvement with these organizations and others was a testament to her love for people and her commitment to making the world a better place.

Carol also had a deep connection to her second home in Burnsville, NC, where she always welcomed friends and family. She cherished the time spent in Burnsville as it was a true sanctuary where she could relax and enjoy the beauty of nature and enjoy special time with friends and family. For decades, she loved to entertain guests, host family gatherings, and celebrate lasting memories.

Carol leaves behind her loving husband Skip, a wonderful son Jay, a dear nephew Steve Hall and his wife Donna, her niece Vicky "Sue" Popejoy, Sue's twin brother Rick Hall and his wife Sue, along with many friends who were like family

A service to celebrate her beautiful life will be held on April 11th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Park Lake Presbyterian Church in Orlando, FL. Graveside services will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Park Lake Presbyterian Church. For those who wish to send flowers, they can be sent to Carey Hand Funeral Home at 2811 Curry Ford Rd., Orlando, FL 32806

The love story that began all those years ago lives on in the hearts of her family and all those who were blessed to know her. Her kindness, wisdom, and unconditional love will forever remain in our hearts.