Carol Elizabeth Dunlap, 91, passed away peacefully at her home on August 21, 2026, surrounded by love. In her final moments, she was held in the arms of her beloved son, Derrick Taylor Dunlap, with her cherished cats, Ollie and Dodger, faithfully by her side.

Carol was born on November 19, 1934, in Norton, Kansas to George Dieter and Mary Pankaski Dieter, both of whom preceded her in death.

In 1953, Carol married the love of her life, Joseph Taylor Dunlap. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and devotion. Joseph preceded her in death in 1978. Widowed at a young age, Carol faced life's challenges with remarkable strength and determination as she raised her two children as a single mother while building a respected career as a Registered Nurse.

For more than 25 years, Carol served her community as a highly skilled and compassionate Registered Nurse. She retired from Lovelace Westside Hospital in Albuquerque, where she was admired by colleagues and patients alike for her dedication, professionalism, and caring spirit.

Carol found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved dancing, farming, and caring for animals. Her home was always a place of comfort, warmth, and kindness, reflecting the generous heart she shared with family, friends, and all who knew her.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph Taylor Dunlap; her daughter, Dawn Dunlap; and her siblings, Helen Francis, Marie Margaret, Sylvester Joseph (Joe), Agnes Louis, William Bernard (Bill), Catherine Bernice, Lewis James (Buster), John Charles, and Paul David.

She is survived by her loving son, Derrick Taylor Dunlap; her grandchildren, Jason Wier, Joshua Wier, and Jamie Finley; three great-grandchildren; and her devoted companions, Ollie and Dodger.

Carol also took great pride in her husband's service to his country. Joseph served as a B-29 Navigator in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, a legacy of service that remained an important part of their family's history.

Carol was deeply loved by many family members and friends. She will be remembered for her strength, compassion, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the patients she cared for, and the countless lives she touched throughout her 91 years.

Family and friends are warmly welcomed to attend and share in remembering a life well lived.

Her memory will be cherished forever.