Carol Dorothy Barrett

Carol Barrett, 83, of Divide, Colorado, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026 in Alexandria, Kentucky while visiting family. Born on January 21, 1943 in Alberta ,Canada, she was the daughter of John Earl and Opal Maynard.

 Carol graduated from Pasadena Nazarene College and earned a degree in education. She went on to open a much-loved daycare, The Gingerbread House, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, where she faithfully served families for many years. During her time in Beaver Falls, Carol was an active member of Rochester United Methodist Church. 

Carol found joy in crafting with friends, gardening, traveling, and spending time with her family. She was widely known for her generosity, warmth, and unwavering kindness. Her radiant smile and open arms made everyone feel welcome and loved.

Carol moved to Divide, Colorado, where she became deeply involved in her church community, faithfully serving and participating in various ministries. Over the years, Carol took part in countless mission trips across the world. Her love for Jesus permeated every area of her life and remains her enduring legacy to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

She is survived by her children: Lori Meehan (Rob Meehan), Curtis Barrett, Eight grandchildren; Seventeen great-grandchildren; and one great-greatgrandchild. Siblings: Nadine Brown (Allan Brown), Richard Maynard (Janice Maynard), John Maynard (Paula Maynard). She was preceded in death by Harry William Barrett (husband), Opal and John Earl (parents), Janice (sister in-law), and Linda Kay Barrett (step-daughter).

 A funeral service will be held at Highland Ave Wesleyan Church on March 20, 2026 at 1pm. Burial will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, 5336 Old Taylor Mill Rd. Taylor Mill, KY 41015.

 Before her passing, Carol shared a heartfelt desire to help build a school in Nigeria. Her final five mission trips were to Nigeria, and during a visit this past summer with Phyllis Sortor and her secretary, Carisa Haven, Carol felt called by the Lord to help establish a school in Sabon Koura, near the city of Jos in Plateau State. 

Land for the school has already been purchased, and Carol participated personally in discussions with the local Ardo, his family, and community members. The total cost of building the school and teachers’ quarters is approximately $51,000, with $26,000 raised so far.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Carol’s memory to Schools for Africa, with “Sabon Koura” noted in the memo line. Contributions may be mailed to: 

Schools for Africa 

c/o Don Standley 

1010 Silver Springs Way Stanwood, WA 98292 

Donations may also be made online at: https://phyllis-sortor-schools-for-africa.org/donations (Please include “Sabon Koura” in the comments.)