Ms. Carol Ann Pappas

Carol Ann Pappas (née Seitz), 86, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2026, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Carol was born on August 6, 1940, at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, New Jersey. She was preceded in death by her parents, John C. Seitz and Dorothy Mann Seitz; her brothers, Robert “Bobbie” Bell and Captain Gordon Bell; and her former husband of 30 years, James Donald Pappas.

Carol leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Douglas Pappas of Selma, North Carolina; Meredith Pappas Lutz and her husband, James Lutz, of Rockaway, New Jersey; and Debra Pappas Stuart of Fayetteville, North Carolina. She is also survived by her four beloved grandchildren, Benjamin Lutz, Sarah Lutz, David Lutz, and Logan Stuart.

Carol grew up in New Jersey, where she raised her children before relocating to North Carolina in 2012. During her early years as a mother, she was actively involved in scouting, participating in Brownies with her daughters and Boy Scouts with her son, who went on to achieve the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Carol also assisted her former husband with numerous fundraising events for Boy Scout Troop 11 through the Second Reformed Church of Hackensack.

Carol was employed by Valley National Bank for several years before her retirement. As her Alzheimer’s disease progressed and she was no longer able to live independently, she received compassionate care from Towanaka Bass of Companions II of North Carolina. Towanaka became much more than a caregiver to Carol; she was a devoted companion and cherished friend.

Carol will be fondly remembered for her love of animals and her generous support of charitable organizations dedicated to helping animals and children. She had a remarkable green thumb and took great pride in caring for her indoor plants and beautiful outdoor flowers. Some of her happiest moments were spent sitting peacefully in her garden, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Carol was also known for her great admiration of Elvis Presley and found much joy in listening to his music. She was equally fond of Marilyn Monroe, perhaps inspired by her own early brush with fame. At just three years old, Carol won the title of “Most Beautiful Child” in a baby parade held in Rutherford, New Jersey. She often proudly recalled having her name featured in the local newspaper and treasured the article, keeping it among her cherished mementos throughout the years.

Carol’s life was filled with love, kindness, generosity, and treasured memories. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

The family will hold services privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Carol’s honor to North Star Pet Rescue of Boonton, New Jersey, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who offered love, support, and compassionate care throughout Carol’s life and during her illness.