Carol Ann (Klotz) Searle

Carol Ann Searle (Klotz), 78, of Johnstown, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at The Addison of Bluffton,SC  following a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Carol was a devoted mother who never missed an event in her children’s lives. Whether it was a BMX race, band performance, musical, or concert, she could always be found cheering proudly from the stands, traveling near and far simply to be present for her family.

Carol was happiest on a dance floor, and when the music turned to oldies, she danced the jitterbug with such joy that it made everyone around her want to join in.

She was a loyal friend and loving wife. She could often be found having coffee with a neighbor in need, picking up a friend who needed a ride, visiting a hospital, or helping to write Christmas cards. She loved attending dance events with her loving husband, Larry where they met with friends on a weekly basis, some of whom she had known since high school. She loved road trips in her convertible with Larry and spending time with him on the back porch enjoying a coffee or evening wine.  

When the grandchildren arrived, she found a new purpose. She delighted in giving to them — searching for the perfect little something she knew would light up their faces — while quietly ensuring their future education would be provided for. She showed her love through generosity, and nothing brought her more joy than blessing those she loved.

A devout Catholic, she showed a special generosity to her home church, St. Therese Church, where she never missed Mass until her disease took over.

Alzheimer’s may have slowly taken her memory, but it never touched the warmth and love she was known for. Her first question to anyone who approached her at the nursing home was always, “Are you okay?” She faced an incredibly difficult and unforgiving journey in her own way — stubborn, strong-willed, and never willing to surrender easily.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her hospice nurse, Andrea, with Marisol Health, whose care and compassion meant so much, as well as to the dedicated staff at The Addison of Bluffton—especially Jackie, Stacey, and Shakenia—for their loving care over the past 15 months.

Though we will miss her deeply, we find comfort imagining her dancing again — carefree, smiling, and surrounded by peace.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Sophie (Gill) Klotz, and her beloved husband, Larry A. Searle.

She is survived by her children: Michelle (Fred) Kim of Frederick, MD; Rebecca (Curt) Palmer of Bluffton, SC; and Michael (Cheryl) Searle of Northern Cambria, PA. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Damian Searle, Elyzabeth Palmer, and Ian Palmer; step-grandchildren, David “JP” (Amy) Kim, Mia (Justin Willis) Kim, and Lillian (Drew) Jeffries; and her step-great-grandson, Walker Jeffries.

Carol is further survived by her siblings: Joanne (Willy Nelson) Klotz, Elaine (David) Findley, Pam (Brian) Wells, and Brian (David Terry) Klotz; her brother-in-law, Don (Marty) Searle; nieces and nephews, Renee (Michael) Uram, Justin (Kelly) Searle, Nicholas (Sophie) Wells;  step nieces, Michelle (Dan) Hall, and Kristie Wells; as well as many great-nieces, and great-nephews who will cherish her memory.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Therese Catholic Church with Rev. Bernard Karmanocky, OFM, officiating. A private committal will follow. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Open House from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Boulevard Grill (165 Southmont Blvd, Johnstown, PA).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Therese Catholic Church (536 Decker Ave, Johnstown, PA 15906) in memory of Carol Searle. 

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