Carolyn, age 82, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, at Sawtelle Hospice House in Reading, MA.

Carolyn grew up in East Boston before moving to Roslindale and then West Roxbury. She was the beloved daughter of the late Anthony and Margaret Spina, and sister to Margaret Simolari and her husband, Richard, of Easton; Roni Brown and her husband, Jack, of Andover; and the late Anthony Spina Jr. of Wells, ME.

She was a loving aunt to Nicole Garabedian and her husband, Stephen of Andover; Amanda DeBow and her husband, Klein, of Panarama City, CA; Allison Allen and her husband, Tim, of Dracut; and Peter Brown and his wife, Ruby, of Andover. She was also a grand-aunt to six grand-nieces/nephews.

Carolyn was educated at Girls Latin High School and Boston State College. She devoted 40 years of her life to teaching elementary school children, working at the Samuel Adams and Donald McKay schools in East Boston and the Gardner School in Allston. Teaching was an important part of Carolyn’s life, and she touched the lives of many students throughout her long and dedicated career.

Carolyn loved to travel and explore the world. She cruised throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Tahiti, and enjoyed driving cross-country throughout the United States. After retiring, she spent many happy years wintering in Florida and enjoying summers in Wareham.

Carolyn will be remembered with love by her family and friends for the life she shared with them, especially her Red Sox T-shirts, and love of board games and mashed potatoes. Her dedication to teaching, and her love of travel and adventure were a joy to see. She will be deeply missed.

Funeral from the Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St., West Roxbury. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated in St. John Chrysostom Church, 4750 Washington St., West Roxbury. Relatives and friends attended. Interment private.

Donations may be made to the Thomas Gardner After-School Program, 30 Athol St., Allston, MA 02134.