Carol A. Hess

Carol Ann Hess, 82, of Ave Maria, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026.

Carol was born on September 10, 1943, in Huntington, West Virginia, to the late Robert Grant and Mary Grant (née Conaty). Carol was raised in a family that fostered a deep, life-long appreciation for music and the performing arts, which she inspired in her children and grandchildren. After graduating from St. Joseph’s Catholic School, Carol attended Ursuline College before earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in nutrition from Drexel University.

Carol pursued a career in higher education, teaching at Villanova University, Neumann University, Seminole State College, and the University of Central Florida. In retirement, Carol continued to serve others by volunteering in the Fort Myers and Immokalee communities and with the St. Vincent de Paul Society. She will be remembered for her sharp wit, warm sense of humor, and infectious smile.

Carol is survived by her husband, Jim Hess; her children, Paul (Susan) Rozelle of St. Petersburg, Florida, Mary Rozelle of Manchester, Connecticut, and Peter (Christina) Rozelle of Chuluota, Florida; her sister, Mary Francis (Bernie) Dahlen of Santa Rosa, California, and her brother Robert Grant (Theresa) of Huntington, West Virginia; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her dearly. Carol was predeceased by her sister Kathie Catlin.

Carol’s life was a testament to faith, service, and love. May she rest in the eternal peace of Christ, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be held on March 28, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Ave Maria Catholic Parish Church, 5088 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria, Florida.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ave Maria Catholic Parish. Flowers may be sent to Fuller Funeral Home in Naples, Florida.