Carol Ann Pilicer Goldsmith's Obituary
Carol Ann Goldsmith--a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother--passed away peacefully on January 27, 2024, at age 98. She was born Clara Lillian Pilicer on March 8, 2025, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Abraham Pilicer and Freda Bella (Abramovich) Pilicer. Later her name was changed to Carol Ann.
Carol Ann received her degree in social work in 1949 from Elmhurst University, where she was a member of the Sociology Club, the Women’s Union, and many other committees. A deeply caring person, she worked as a geriatric social worker in Chicago after graduation. During this time, she met her husband of 72 years, Harold Goldsmith. After living briefly in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, she and Harold settled in Maryland.
Reflections from family and friends reveal some of her favorite things as well as her strength of character and loving, generous heart.
Carol appreciated the beauty of nature and enjoyed gardening. For over 40 years she curated a beautiful wildflower grotto at her home and took pride in her peonies. Brookside Gardens was one of her favorite places.
Carol also loved music and was a gifted singer. Her grandchildren fondly remember visits when Carol would sing to them each night until they fell asleep. A favorite song was “McNamara’s Band.”
Family and friends also fondly remember Carol’s love of shopping. This interest led her to work at Bloomingdales for many years. After retirement she enjoyed frequent shopping trips with her grandchildren. Carol ended each of these trips with a stop at a cafe for a coffee and cookies.
Everyone who knew Carol, recognized her smile. Even when Parkinson’s disease restricted her mobility, her smile continued to light up the room. She faced her illness with incredible courage and strength, and with help from her loving husband and caring aides, she continued to enjoy going for walks and looking at the flowers.
Carol was an amazing woman, a beautiful soul who will be sorely missed. She cherished her family, who meant everything to her. She is survived by her husband, Harold Goldsmith, son Kent Goldsmith and wife Mercedes, daughter Deborah Weller and husband Don, two grandchildren Sarah Weller Pegna and Daniel Weller, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Martin Pilicer.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date and location.
The family invites those who wish to make a memorial donation in Carol’s name to consider contributing to Parkinson’s Foundation at https://www.parkinson.org/.
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