Carol Schmitt Buckley

Carol Schmitt Buckley entered her heavenly home on August 13, 2026 at the age of 87.

Born on August 20, 1938, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Carol was the eldest of Carl and Florence Schmitt’s five children. From an early age, she learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and commitment—qualities that would define her throughout her life.

At the age of 17, Carol married Thomas Buckley. In 1973, the young couple moved from Pennsylvania to Hollywood, Florida, where Tom became involved in church ministry, completed his college degree, and established a developmental center for adults with disabilities. Carol was a constant source of encouragement and support to Tom, and his accomplishments brought her tremendous pride and satisfaction. Together, Tom and Carol shared 68 years of marriage before his passing in 2022.

Carol was a devoted wife and mother of six who found joy in a good book, participating in church activities, and traveling with family and friends. Charleston was her favorite destination, but perhaps her most treasured adventure was a trip to England for a cruise aboard the historic Queen Mary 2—a journey she insisted on taking at the age of 73. Her adventurous, determined, and unrelenting spirit was evident to everyone who knew her.

Carol is survived by her sons, Michael Buckley (Kaye) of Knoxville, Tennessee; Thomas Buckley (Kathy) of Los Angeles, California; and Chris Buckley (Jennifer Kimmerling) of Hollywood, Florida; and her daughters, Patricia Coughlin of Port St. Lucie, Florida; Colleen Nolan (Peter) of Nutley, New Jersey; and Judy O’Donnell of Greenbriar, Arkansas. She leaves behind ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings, Pat Forrest, Judy Agatone, and Joe Schmitt, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Florence Schmitt; her beloved husband, Tom Buckley; and her brother, Fred Schmitt.

Following Tom’s death, Carol moved to Greenbriar, Arkansas, to be near her youngest daughter and primary caregiver, Judy O’Donnell. Carol’s family is deeply grateful to the many caregivers who helped care for her during the final years of her life. Their loving, compassionate, and devoted attention provided comfort to Carol and her family and will never be forgotten.

In accordance with Carol’s wishes, there will be no public service. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her beloved Tom.