Carolyn Frey

Carol, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025. Born on August 11, 1933, in Boonville, NY, she was the beloved only child of Marjorie Montana Perry and Charles Lincoln Perry.

She graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1951 and earned her degree from Oberlin College in 1955, where she majored in French. During her final year, she lived in a French-speaking residence, embracing the language and culture with enthusiasm and grace. That same year, on August 8, she married John Donald Frey Jr., with whom she shared a lifetime of love and partnership until his passing.

She is survived by her beloved cat, Roxy, and her four children: Charles (Nancy), John (late wife Sarah), Eric (Carrie), and Lisa (Matt). She was a proud and loving grandmother to ten grandchildren: Andy (Allie), Maighan, Allison (partner Olami), Erin (partner Andrew), Billy, Andrea (Sam), Mary Kate (partner Jim), Abby (fiancée Peter), Sam (partner Olivia), and Caden. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of two great-granddaughters, June (daughter of Andrea & Sam) and Reagan (daughter of Andy & Allie).

A woman of many talents and passions, she was a gifted florist and an avid gardener. She was a member of the Landing Rock Garden Club, past president of the 7th District Garden Club, and a judge with the Federated Garden Clubs of New York State. Her creativity also found expression in music—she played the piano, organ, and clarinet—and she found joy in reading, especially during summers spent at the family cottage on Fourth Lake in the Adirondacks, where she loved being on the water sailing.

Professionally, she brought warmth and dedication to her roles at Sibley’s and in human resources at Nixon Peabody. She was a longtime member and former deacon of the First Baptist Church of Penfield, where her faith and service touched many lives.

She lived in the same welcoming home in Ellison Park Heights for 67 years, a place filled with love, laughter, and memories. A devout Yankees fan, she cheered for her team with unwavering loyalty and enthusiasm.

She was predeceased by her husband Don, her mother Marjorie, and her father Charles. Her legacy of adventure, love, grace, and generosity lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Friends may call to the funeral chapel (2305 Monroe Avenue) Sunday, June 8th from 2-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Carol’s name to the ALS Upstate New York Chapter, 135 Old Cove Rd., Suite 213, Liverpool, NY 13090. To share a memory or condolence with the family, visit www.anthonychapels.com.