Carol Dee (Dee-Dee) was born on Feb. 10, 1953, in Chicago, to Ruth and Zebedee Montgomery.
She died peacefully surrounded by her only daughter, Carolyn “Nicole” Johnson, and loved ones at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, on March 17, 2023, at 2:53 p.m.
Carol had a passion for helping people and had a successful career helping others. She had a plethora of friends she cherished all her life. All who knew her knew she was a phenomenal and virtuous woman. Most of her relationships were friends from childhood; they were long-lasting and loving relationships.
She is survived by her only daughter, Carolyn Nicole; three grandchildren, Rico Orlando, Kai’lah Nicole and Zai’re Jovell. Also surviving are her sisters, Ruth C. Perkins of Chicago, Alvin (Chucky) Montgomery (Chris) of Chicago, Sherry Carter-Embree (Tommie) and Betty Montgomery of Atlanta. Her nieces and nephews who loved her dearly: Marilyn Hawkins (Eugene) of Chicago, Darlene Sanders of Matteson, Delores Perkins of Chicago, Celeste Hargrove (Melvin) of Virginia, Anthony Perkins of Chicago, Quincy Carter of Texas, Brandyn Montgomery of Nevada, and Britnee Montgomery and Bethanie Montgomery of Atlanta.
She was preceded in death by Gregory Johnson of Chicago Heights, the love of her life, and a sister, Barbara Gaffney of Detroit.
She had a strong love for her in-laws and they for her — Liz Moore of Sauk Village, and Earl Johnson of Milwaukee. She was preceded in death by Betty Simmons of Texas, Leo Johnson, Albert Johnson and Ricky Johnson of Chicago Heights.
Cremation rites for Carol have been accorded. A celebration of her life will take place in her hometown in July.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Heath & Vaughn Funeral Home, 201 N Elm St, Champaign.