In Loving Memory of Carolyn Gagne

Carolyn Gagne, 82, of Menifee, California, passed away peacefully at her home on April 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 2, 1944, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to Hayden and Catherine Bradley, Carolyn lived a life defined by devotion to her family, kindness toward others, and a quiet strength that inspired all who knew her.

Carolyn shared an extraordinary bond with her husband, Ron of 59 years. Their life together was a testament to enduring love — built on mutual respect, shared laughter, and the joy of raising a family.

Early in their marriage, Carolyn and Ron moved around the country before eventually settling in Endwell, New York, and later in Colchester, Vermont where they raised their children. Vermont became a beloved home, and their children carry with them a deep love for the Green Mountain State. Over the years, their children settled in different areas across the country, but the bonds of family remained strong. In retirement, Carolyn and Ron headed for sunny California, where they have resided for the past 22 years.

Carolyn received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from Fitchburg State University. She worked on and off in geriatric care, and ultimately was the Staff Development Coordinator at a Vermont nursing home teaching others compassion and care for the elderly. She was the family’s go-to with medical questions and lent her skills volunteering with various organizations after her retirement.

A devoted and loving mother, Carolyn took immense pride in her children: Sharon Roy and her husband Andy, Lisa Rothmuller and her husband Michael, Jeannine Fisher, and Michael Gagne and his wife Stacy. She cherished each of them deeply, celebrating their accomplishments, supporting them through challenges, and always offering a listening ear, a warm embrace, and a comfortable bed.

Her greatest joy came from her role as a grandmother. Carolyn was blessed with ten grandchildren — Shannon and Jacob Roy; Brianna and David Rothmuller; Dylan, Amanda, and Danielle Fisher; and Catherine, Nat, and Rebecca Gagne. She delighted in their milestones, encouraged their dreams, and filled their lives with unconditional love.

Carolyn had a gift for bringing people together. She loved to host parties, always preparing every dish herself with care and joy. Friends and family knew her home as a warm and welcoming place, filled with laughter, delicious food, and the sound of cards shuffling or dice rolling. She enjoyed playing games of all kinds — from her playful “not-so-solitary” solitaire to lively bridge club gatherings and other game nights she often organized.

She also had a deep love for her garden, tending to it with the same care she gave to her relationships. Her yard was always in bloom, but everyone will always remember her magnificent Christmas cactus, which blossomed year after year, brightening her home and delighting all who saw it.

Carolyn and Ron shared a love for travel, often exploring new places together. Many of their vacations included their children and their families, creating treasured memories. The Gagne Family reunions and vacations were unforgettable and included trips to Breckenridge, Colorado; the Outer Banks, North Carolina; Palm Springs, California; and two memorable cruises. These adventures were filled with laughter, togetherness, and the joy of experiencing the world side by side.

In 2010, Carolyn was diagnosed with the rare disease, AL amyloidosis. She defied all the odds, fighting with strength, dignity, and determination for more than 15 years. She never complained about her situation or showed fear, choosing instead to live each day with grace, gratitude, and love for those around her. Her courage was an inspiration to everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Ron, four children and their spouses, ten grandchildren, and sister Jean Cantwell. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hayden and Catherine Bradley, and her brother, Hayden “Brad” Bradley.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Amyloidosis Foundation (amyloidosis.org), honoring Carolyn’s lifelong spirit of generosity and her hope for a better future for others facing this illness.

"Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day — unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear."