Carol Jean Gabriel, age 95, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Sunrise Terrace in Winfield, Iowa.

A graveside family service will be held at Indian Creek Cemetery. The family suggests that gifts in Carol's memory be made to Camp Courageous, Monticello, Iowa www.campcourageous.org . Online condolences may be sent for Carol's family at www.jonesfh.com

Carol was born on August 6, 1930, in Peoria, Illinois, the daughter of John and Marcella (Canty) Henry. She graduated as valedictorian of her class from Dunlap High School in Dunlap, Illinois, took post-graduate business courses and worked as a professional secretary in the insurance industry. On April 1, 1951, Carol was united in marriage to David William Gabriel.

Carol and David raised their family in Rockford, Illinois and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and moved in 1981 to Aurora, Colorado. Except for a 5-year stint in Washington, D.C. from 1986 to 1991 and Carol's return to Iowa under medical care in March 2025, they lived at Heather Gardens in Aurora for the rest of their lives. While living in Washington D.C., Carol volunteered at the Old Executive Office Building and at the White House in the East Wing office of First Lady Barbara Bush, working with the First Lady's speechwriter.

Carol loved dancing and tap-danced in the Heather Gardens' Frolics (for which David played the piano and organ), was an active participant in sporting activities and games with children and grandchildren, followed Denver professional sports teams, and was an avid walker.

She is survived by her son, Bruce (Rebecca) Gabriel of Shaker Heights, Ohio; son, Brian Gabriel of Iowa City, Iowa; daughter, Barbara (Mike) Hayes of Denver, Colorado; and daughter, Beth (Phil) Martin of Columbus Junction, Iowa; along with eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; husband, David, in 2014; and two sisters, Jackie and Joyce.