CAROL ANDERS MCDONALD, 60,

a longtime resident of Green Valley and popular member of local pharmacy staffs, died peacefully in her sleep on May 1, 2008, at her Montana Vista home. Her passing was unexpected and came as a shock to the community she loved.

Carol was born in 1947 at Oshkosh, Wis. She worked for North Central Airlines as a reservations clerk in Milwaukee before moving to Green Valley in 1971. Soon she established herself in local retailing where she became a familiar fixture in a succession of drugstores. She had planned early retirement in late June from CVS Pharmacy where she served as a shift supervisor.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and two husbands, Ralph Mellon and Jim McDonald, each of whom died of cancer. She is survived by a sister and brother-in-law Bonnie and William Hemena of Green Valley; brother Lorin Anders of Oshkosh; three aunts, an uncle, two nieces, three nephews and numerous cousins.

Very attractive with a radiant personality, winning smile and a huge heart, Carol was adored by her regular customers. Many would stop at her store just to see Carol, whether or not they had anything to buy. She was fond of traveling and her airline position enabled her to go all over the U.S. and abroad. She intended to take more trips following her retirement.

A widow for 10 years, Carol was proud of her circle of good friends in business and the professions who were always willing to help her if the need ever arose. The problems and intricacies of going it alone never seemed to bother Carol. Whenever the subject came up, she’d smile and say “I’ve got people.”

A devoted member of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, Carol’s faith was her strength. She believed that whatever might happen in life, good or bad, was meant to be. She was most generous in her support of worthy causes, especially those with a religious orientation for the young and less fortunate. An avid reader, she often absorbed several books within a week.

Carol maintained close family ties. But she was also deeply compassionate toward others, particularly children in need. Among her favorite charities were the Outreach Pregnancy Center and the Ronald McDonald House. Upon retiring, Carol planned to become more involved in her church and in various altruistic activities.

Carol was well-liked and respected by all who knew her and she will be greatly missed.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 9, at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. Carol will be interred next to her late husband, Jim McDonald, in the Green Valley Mortuary Columbarium.

Remembrances may be made to Carol’s church, the OLOV Outreach program and Ronald McDonald House.