Carol J. Washington

Carol Jean Washington was born December 25, 1941, in Boston, MA, to Charles and Helen Van Allen. Carol attended Jeremiah E. Burke High School in Boston, MA. Spending her summers on Martha's Vineyard Boarding camp, along with her brothers. Carol worked as a summer nanny. Later in life on the vineyard she followed a family tradition that of becoming a member of the Cottagers Inc. of the Vineyard. She received a lifetime membership for her service and dedication. That tradition is now followed by her eldest daughter Kym Washington-Longino.

Carol was preceded in death by her devoted partner and husband, Richard of 65 years. She leaves behind two daughters, Kym Washington-Longino and Lisa Walker; grandchildren, Melayne Tulloch and Richard Newman; great-grandchildren, Ava Newman, Roman and Riyan Tulloch; brothers, Charles Van Allen, Jr. and Bruce Van Allen; sisters, Emily Thomas, Denise Van Allen and Michelle Johnson; and a host of family, and close friends that admired her tenacity and warmth. Carol was also preceded in death by her brothers, David Van Allen and Keith Johnson.

Carol was a loving sister to her siblings. She was nicknamed by her father "Rag Mop", do to her unruly curly locks.

Becoming a mother at an early age though difficult proved her strength. While Richard prepared for their new beginnings. With few choices, she accepted the responsibility and did what was necessary for her and her daughter Kym. Much of her resilience came from her early years, her determination to succeed and make the most of her life was always evident. Loyalty to her family and friends was a hallmark to her character.

As Carol journeyed through life she moved with purpose and devotion. Joining Richard in Los Angeles they welcome their second daughter Lisa. She had a successful career as an accountant with Baily, Martin and Faye Accounting Firm. Always working to uphold her family, giving them the best she had to offer. Carol taught her children to marvel at life's simplest wonders, to slow down and notice life's beauty. With her piercing sparkling blue eyes she greeted the world with a warm smile that seemed to hold both innocence and wisdom. Carol carried a gentle, childlike comfort within herself. But also protected her family with fierce and unwavering love. She hid her storms so others could feel balanced. The love, laughter and comfort she gave to others came straight from her heart and soul. This is what made her an extraordinary woman.

Carol stood beside Richard and was the rock of the family's stability. She lived a life of elegance, while they traveled and sailed the Caribbean islands. Alongside her husband they mingled with Hollywood's brightest stars. Yet through it all she remained Carol, a humbled, radiant, strong women that rose from the projects to the life of the rich and famous.

Her time here has taught many powerful lessons. To protect what you love. To never lose sight of who you are. To harness your strength. To walk with grace. And to remember that humility is the greatest wealth of all.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts.

Services are being schedule for:
August 29, 2026
Oak Grove Cemetery
Pacific Ave.
Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts

Repast
Portuguese America Club
137 Vineyard Ave.
Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts