Carol Anne Brigham Strong, 78, of Endicott, New York, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 4th 2026, at the Mercy House in Endicott. Carol shared 32 loving years with her devoted partner, John Smith. She was a proud and loving mother to four children: Heidi Zemlianko (Andrei Zemlianko), Eric Davis, Carrie Rathbone (Scott Rathbone), and Christopher Strong (Katie Strong). Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to her six cherished grandchildren: Nickolas, Rebecca, Isabelle, Christian, Xavier and Marcus. She is survived by her siblings Roger, Pamela, Marilyn and Patty-Ann. She was predeceased by her parents, Roger and Nellie Brigham; her siblings, David, Kevin, Patty and Sharon as well her beloved dog, Buffy, who brought her comfort, companionship and unconditional love. Born on November 26, 1947 in Endicott New York, Carol was raised on a farm in Richford, New York. As the eldest of nine children, she learned early the meaning of responsibility, resilience, and caring for others - lessons that shaped the rest of her life. Her strong work ethic, compassionate heart and natural ability to nurture were evident in everything she did. Carol dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She worked for 13 years as a home health aide, providing comfort, dignity and kindness to those in need. She also spent 13 years as a school monitor at Maine Elementary School, where she became affectionately known as "Grandma" by the children she watched over and loved. Her presence was a source of warmth and safety, and was cherished by students and staff alike. She was proud of her education and accomplishments. Carol graduated from Broome Community College as a Nurse Assistant and later attended Ridley-Lowell College, where she was honored as valedictorian of her graduating class- an achievement that reflected her determination, intelligence and perseverance. Strong-willed, hardworking and deeply nurturing, Carol found happiness in the simple things - Elvis music playing in the background, a good book, a beautifully decorated home, meals made with love, and quietly watching the birds from her kitchen window. Her greatest joy was caring for her family and showing up for others with unwavering devotion. Carol Anne Brigham Strong will be remembered as a devoted partner, loving mother and grandmother, compassionate caregiver, and a woman whose strength, kindness, and tireless work ethic touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Services will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 at Coleman and Daniel's Funeral Home, 765 Main Street, Vestal, New York. Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12 noon until service time at 1.
Carol Anne Brigham Strong, 78, of Endicott, New York, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 4th 2026, at the Mercy House in Endicott. Carol shared 32 loving years with her devoted partner, John Smith. She was a proud and loving mother to four children: Heidi Zemlianko (Andrei Zemlianko), Eric Davis, Carrie Rathbone (Scott Rathbo
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
12:00 am
Vestal Park Cemetery
Main Street Vestal, NY 13850