Obituary of Carol P. Middleton

Carol Ann Middleton was born on February 29, 1944, in Jackson, Mississippi, to the late W.A. Puckett and Effie Puckett. On October 23, 2025, she peacefully went home to be with the Lord.

Carol grew up in Jackson, Mississippi, where she attended Forest Hill High School, graduating in 1962. She continued her education at Hinds Junior College, leaving in 1964, and later attended Mississippi College, where she graduated in 1967 with a degree that reflected her love of learning and dedication to excellence.

In 1968, Carol began her teaching journey, which would later span decades. After relocating to Orange, New Jersey, in 1970, she dedicated herself to shaping young minds as a Math Teacher at Orange High School and Montville High School, where she served faithfully until June 2001.

Outside the classroom, Carol was deeply involved in her community and church. She was a devoted soprano soloist at a Lutheran Church in Orange, New Jersey, where her voice uplifted the congregation. She also served as a Cheerleading Coach at Orange High School, inspiring young women with her encouragement and enthusiasm. A gifted musician, Carol was the musical director for a local theater group, where she played piano and guided numerous performances. Her passion for music also extended into education, where she served as a musical director at a high school, blending her talents in teaching and the arts.

She was known for her grace, intellect, and generosity—always giving without expecting anything in return. Carol’s nurturing spirit extended to her family, friends, students, and community. She had a heart that welcomed everyone, a mind that inspired, and a soul that uplifted.

Carol was predeceased by her beloved husband Steve Middleton, her children Andrea Hernandez and Dwayne Middleton, her siblings W.A. Puckett Jr., Jackie Puckett, John Franklin “Butch” Puckett, and Betty Pow, and her parents Effie and W.A. Puckett. She leaves only joyful memories to her adored grandchildren, Kallel, Diani, Zariah, and Nasir; her loving daughter-in-law, Sharon Middleton; and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will carry her legacy forward with love.

To honor her giving heart, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Carol Middleton at the following link:
https://raiseyourway.donordrive.com/campaigns/In-Memory-of-Carol-P--Middleton

Relatives and friends are welcome to celebrate Carol on Wednesday, October 29th, from 3 – 5 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ. Funeral Service will begin at 5:00 pm. Please leave a condolence or share your favorite memory of Carol here to continue to let her light shine. We will cherish them forever.