Carole Jean Clark, age 75, of Forest Hill, Maryland, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Carole was the beloved daughter of the late Carroll Roland Lighthiser and Doris Valerie (Cullum) Lighthiser.

Carole dedicated her life to helping others and caring for the people she loved most. Beginning her career at just 17 years old, she spent nearly 46 years working in social services, where she devoted herself to helping those in need. After retiring, she embraced one of her greatest joys: caring for her grandchildren and spending as much time as possible with her family.

Family was Carole’s world. She was a loving mother, a devoted grandmother, and a beloved partner whose gentle soul and caring heart touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She made it a priority to be present for her grandchildren, attending their soccer games, dance recitals, and after-school activities. Whenever she could, she was there to cheer them on and share in their special moments.

Carole’s love extended to all creatures, great and small. She especially adored dogs and enjoyed puppy-sitting and kitty-sitting for her family. She also delighted in feeding the wildlife that visited her yard, including deer, raccoons, groundhogs, squirrels, and any other hungry critters that happened to stop by. Her kindness, compassion, and gentle nature were evident in the way she cared for both people and animals.

Carole will be remembered as an amazing mother, a loving grandmother, and a cherished partner who dedicated her life to helping others and caring for her family. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved partner, Rick Gosnell; loving daughter, Lori Brown and her husband, Christopher Brown; her cherished grandchildren, Tyler Brown and Aria Brown; and other extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Harford County Humane Society https://www.harfordshelter.org/ways-to-give/donate in honor of Carole’s lifelong love for animals.