Carolyn Kay Hare

Carolyn Kay Hare, age 80, of Waterville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Toledo, with the warmth of the sun upon her face. Born on July 1, 1945, in Cambridge, Ohio, she was the cherished daughter of Arley and Freda (Tomey) Wilfong.

On November 7, 1970, Carolyn married Thomas R. Hare, embarking on a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion and service. Together, they built a legacy in funeral care, beginning with the purchase of their first funeral home in North Baltimore, Ohio, and later acquiring the Mann Funeral Home in Fostoria in 1980. For over three decades, Carolyn and Tom compassionately served hundreds of grieving families, retiring in 2005 with a reputation for dignity, grace, and heartfelt hospitality.

Carolyn’s warmth extended far beyond the walls of the funeral homes. She was renowned for her impeccable attention to detail and her gift for creating spaces that felt like home. Whether welcoming guests into her beautifully appointed residence or preparing seasonal décor, especially her beloved Christmas trees, Carolyn infused every corner with charm and care. Her culinary talents were equally admired, with homemade apple dumplings marking football season and exquisite hors d’oeuvres delighting guests on Christmas Eve.

A consummate hostess, Carolyn made everyone feel like family. Her home was a haven for longtime friends and new acquaintances alike, and her vibrant spirit often made her the heart of every gathering. Her service to her community included a longtime membership and serving as past president of the Fostoria Emblem Club.

In her later years, Carolyn found immense joy in the company of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending their games, meets, and recitals with pride and enthusiasm. Her grandchildren will also remember “Nana” for her terrific jokes, storytelling, and for her prowess at playing card games, particularly Skip-Bo. Carolyn shared many happy moments with Tom watching Ohio State football and Cleveland Indians baseball, and treasured their winters spent in the Florida sunshine.

Carolyn’s legacy is one of elegance and unwavering devotion to family and community. She will be fondly remembered by those whose lives she touched with her thoughtful gestures, creativity, and radiant spirit.

Surviving is her husband of nearly 55 years, Tom Hare; children; David (Linda) Hare, Kirsten (Frank) Bevilacqua, and Erica (Ryan) Hobbs; grandchildren, David (Whitney) Hare, Olivia Hare, Sophia and Isabella Bevilacqua, Anthony (Helen) Hobbs, Alexis (Kyle) Buzzi, Avery, Anderson, Adeline, Adam, Ambrose, Anna, Abigail, and Aquinas Hobbs; great grandchildren, Brandy and Nora Hare, Scarlett and Ezra Buzzi; sister, Lorreta Heddleson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Arley Wilfong and Freda Hoffman; and sister, Shirley.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 5-8 p.m., Friday, October 31, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, OH 43623. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Church of the Cross, 1750 Eastgate Road, Toledo, OH 43614. Private interment will take place at Roth Cemetery in Monclova Twp.

Contributions in her name are suggested to The Northwest Ohio Classical Academy Foundation, 5025 Glendale Ave., Toledo, OH 43614.

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