Carol Ann O’Connor passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on January 26, 2026. She was born on April 5, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Richard Rogers and Mary Liddy.
Carol graduated from Mercy College with a degree in Education and devoted her life to teaching.
Whether in her own classroom, as a substitute teacher, or while guiding children through catechism, she shared patience, kindness, and a genuine love for helping young people grow.
On August 22, 1966, she married the love of her life, Duane O’Connor. Together they built a beautiful life over 56 years, marked by devotion, partnership, and unwavering support for one another until his passing in 2022.
A longtime member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Carol lived her faith with humility and sincerity. She was active in many parish groups and was a humble and faithful servant of God. She found joy in studying the Bible and felt called to help others strengthen their own faith. Creative at heart, she loved painting and embraced opportunities to travel.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Duane, son Brian, and sister Priscilla Arble.
She is survived by her children Jill (Kenneth) Green and Michael (Katy) O’Connor; her granddaughter Ella O’Connor; and her siblings Sherry (Robert) Lewis and Charles Rogers.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 805 S Jefferson, Hastings, MI 49058, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. A luncheon will follow with Interment at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in memory of Carol can be made to St. Rose of Lima Church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more