Carol Ann Zawislak

Eulogy

Today we gather to honor a woman whose spirit shone brightly in every season of her life. Carol Ann Zawislak was born to Trygva and Eleanor, and younger sister to Joan. My mom grew up in Union, New Jersey—a place that shaped her, but never contained her. Even as a young girl, she was a free spirit—curious, creative, and touched with a kind of wildflower magic. A true flower child, she carried that gentle, sun-warmed energy with her always.

Mom was an artist in every sense of the word. After attending art school in 1970, she pursued a career in graphic design at various newspapers. But her artistry didn’t end at her profession—it spilled beautifully into our everyday lives. She had a gift for transforming ordinary moments into scenes filled with warmth and wonder. Whether it was a church celebration like Breakfast with Santa or a simple family gathering, she created backdrops that felt magical—softly painted settings, thoughtful details, and touches of beauty that made every event feel special. She infused our celebrations with creativity, from the Halloween costumes she crafted by hand to the Christmas presents she wrapped with perfect, magazine-worthy bows. Our home and backyard became her canvas, transformed into a lush, vibrant sanctuary. Plants didn’t just grow around her—they flourished, responding to the love, care, and instinctive artistry she poured into everything she touched. Every corner of our world felt more alive because of her—the colors richer, the seasons brighter, and the everyday moments more meaningful. Before her art career, she was a synchronized swimmer and a lifeguard, teaching swimming at the Whale for the Red Cross in Union. And it was there, surrounded by water and sunshine, that she met the love of her life—Ted Zawislak. For the next 60 years, they stood side by side. Their partnership was a story of devotion, friendship, laughter, and unwavering support. Dad was with her until her very last breath, and their love remains one of the greatest legacies she leaves behind.

Mom shone brightest in the role she cherished most: being a nurturing, devoted mother of three. To my older brothers, Jake and Josh, and to me, she was our guide—always trying to lead us toward the right path, even when we stubbornly insisted on finding our own. And even when we didn’t listen, she was right there afterward, helping us learn from our mistakes and grow into the people we are today. She taught us, above everything else, the importance of family—something that still anchors us today. We’re together often, not just for holidays or special occasions, but because she made togetherness feel natural, comforting, and essential. She and Dad gave us a childhood most people would envy. From unforgettable family vacations and last-minute adventures to cheering us on at every game—or quietly praying Jake didn’t injure himself during whatever extreme phase he was in—they packed our lives with joy, excitement, and memories we’ll carry forever. And the love she gave her children extended effortlessly to the people we brought into the family. Mom welcomed her son-in-law and her two daughters-in-law with the same warmth, honesty, and open arms she gave her own kids. She made them feel at home from the very first day, treating them not as additions to the family but as true sons and daughters. She celebrated their strengths, supported them in tough times, and found joy in the unique relationship she had with each of them. They were part of her heart, and she was deeply proud of the family we grew into together. And just as Mom poured love into the family she raised, she also held onto the family she came from. Her bond with her sister was one that lasted a lifetime—rooted in shared memories, laughter, honesty, and a deep understanding only sisters can truly know. Their connection was constant and a quiet thread of love woven through every stage of their lives. We didn’t always make life easy for her, but she loved us without a single pause. She was the person we leaned on, the one we confided in, the voice of reason and strength when we needed it most. And through everything, she kept her humor—always laughing, always joking, always lifting our spirits—right up until the very end.

And Mom… you were my best friend. You are my best friend. Through every joy, every mistake, every hospital stay, every mother-daughter shopping trip, and every tear you wiped away, you were the person I could lean on without fear. I have even gone to call you this week. Your guidance shaped me, your strength steadied me, and your love carried me.

Mom loved the sun, tropical places, and the simple joy of a good pina colada. Every single morning—without fail—she could be found in her favorite chair by 5 a.m., sipping her coffee, reading her book, or getting lost in a new sci-fi adventure. She was a devoted reader, a lover of stories, and someone who relished the thrill of imagination. She was many things: a teacher, a gardener, a straight shooter who always told you the truth—whether or not it was what you wanted to hear. She was a caring sister, a devoted wife, a loving mom, a loyal friend, and a grandmother who filled her grandkids’ lives with magic. Whether baking cookies, carving pumpkins, or spinning on the sit-and-spin until they were dizzy with laughter, she poured her heart into every moment with them. Her artistic spirit lives on in each of them, a beautiful reflection of the creativity she nurtured and shared. Mom lived with openness, honesty, warmth, and courage. She lived in color, in sunshine, in movement, and in art. She lived fully—and she loved fully. Her absence leaves a deep ache, but her presence will never fade. We carry her in the gardens she tended, in the art she inspired, in morning cups of coffee, and in every heartfelt conversation where truth is spoken with love. I imagine her now, surrounded by long-lost loved ones—and by all of our many pets who waited for her. Mima and Jingles, Peter, Ben, Blacky, Jake’s countless reptiles, and Jamu calling her to bed, ready for one more brushing. I can picture her there, sipping a pina colada and enjoying lobster and strawberry shortcakes, laughing, joking, and completely at peace. Knowing they are all with her brings us comfort beyond words.

Thank you, Mom, for absolutely everything. Even in your hardest moments, you fought with grace, with humor, and with so much love for us. In your final moments, you made sure we looked after one another—just as you always did. You will forever be in our hearts, our compass, and our hero. We love you forever.