Carol L. Geshay

Carol L. Geshay passed from this life on February 1, 2026, in the comfort of her three sons in her final days and hours. Carol was affectionately called “Katie” by the family and many friends.

Katie was a good role model and had an impactful life with her husband (James B. Geshay Sr.); sons and daughters-in-law Jim (Renee); John (Mary); Jay (Susan); grandchildren Tyler (Zhipang); Lauren Paige (Andrew); Michael; Jessica (Jeffrey); Lauren Michelle; Connor (Bre); Jack (Emma); and great-grandchildren Mia and Kai, along with many nieces and nephews.

Her legacy was her devotion to family, God, and community, as well as holding her large extended family close. She was quick to smile and was positive and optimistic. Her smile was infectious. She often said, “When you smile at someone, the simple act might lift their day; and it makes you feel good too.”

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1930 to Thomas and Jean Louise (Brouse) Sellars, she is preceded in death by her older sister Patricia (Sellars) Kalal and younger brother Bill Sellars. They spent many happy summers on their grandparents’ farms in Ohio. Upon graduating with a teaching degree from Kent State University, she married James B. Geshay (formerly from Racine, Wisconsin), whom she met at a church function. After that chance meeting, she told her sister that she had met the man she was going to marry. They were married on July 27, 1951, at the Brouse’s farm where her mother and sister were also married.

Katie was a lifelong teacher; first as a newlywed, she taught Elementary Education in Parma, Ohio, then later as a Special Education Teacher in Pathfinder School in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Jim’s corporate career took the family to several different parts of the country, and she always made a home wherever they lived. They traveled between houses in Upper St. Clair, PA, and Naples for years.

After Jim’s death, the women of Pelican Bay showed up in force and embraced her. Her later years were filled with wonderful friends, neighbors, playing bridge, and serving as a Stevens Minister at her church. She was active and enthusiastic in all her endeavors and was often heard saying, “Let’s Go!”

The family is grateful to the Carlisle Assisted Living and Avow Hospice for the special care they provided and in maintaining her dignity.

She is now having a grand reunion with her beloved husband, family members, and friends, as well as with the Lord of All. We will forever remember her life and her example. Love you.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Naples at a later date.