Loretta Louise Karmes-Carroll

Loretta Louise Karmes-Carroll, age 69, died peacefully on March 4, 2023 after a brief illness at Union Hospital in Elkton, MD. In her last years, health issues tried, but failed, to limit Loretta’s marvelous humor, sharp wit, and kind nature. Some of Loretta’s final words, shared with a smile, were to thank those who cared for and loved her. 

Born November 27, 1953 in Hastings, Michigan to Richard and Margaret Karmes, Loretta would forever be the shortest Karmes child, but her bold personality eclipsed her small stature. Whether defending a friend or confronting the neighbor who threatened to shoot her dog, Loretta was fearless. She was also adorably naughty. When young Loretta started saying “PISSONYA!,” her mother frustratingly realized she wasn’t talking about Italian food… 

In high school, Loretta met Doug -- a gentle, tall man who fell in love with so much spirit in such a small package. They married, and thank God, both fluently spoke the rare love language of sarcasm. They enjoyed organizing group trips to the Outer Banks and laid-back Thanksgiving meals (Doug being an excellent cook). When Doug developed cancer, Loretta became a relentless advocate, never leaving his side until he died in 2001. She never loved again, except of course for Keanu Reeves, but Doug had patiently tolerated that for years. After 22 years apart, Loretta and Doug are finally together again. 

A loving sister, devoted aunt, and faithful friend, Loretta would listen, but also share hard truths when needed. She enjoyed good food, indulged in the occasional shot of Patrón, and relished buying antiques more than dusting them. But most memorable about Loretta was how she made people laugh. Not a measly “haha,” but an overflowing, deep belly laugh that kept you giggling for days, thinking, “I can’t believe she said THAT...” Loretta, we love you and will miss you beyond words.

Left to try to plan a private celebration of life worthy of her are: her aunt, Carol Mullen of Elkton, MD; sister, Gratia Karmes of Starkville, MS; brother, Roger Karmes (Francine) of North East, MD; cousin Mary Anne Karmes of Kentwood, MI; cousin Anna Fitzwater of North East, MD; cousin Anthony Mullen of Elkton, MD; niece Emily McNally (John) of San Mateo, CA; niece Dr. Devon Worgess Brenner (Robert Thompson) of Starkville, MS; niece Bethany Schorfhaar (Barry) of North Bend, WA; nephew John Koch of Addison, MI; nephew Dr. Aaron Karmes of Bangor, ME; niece Erica Jesonis (Darrell) of Elkton, MD; cousin Cora Gavula (Michael) of North East, MD; and many grand nieces, nephews, and other family and friends. 

A graveside service will be held May 6, 2023 at 2pm at the Cherry Hill United Methodist Church, 33 Elk Mills Road in Elkton.

In addition to her sweet husband, Doug, Loretta was predeceased by too many dogs, cats, horses, and other creatures to name, all of which she adored and which adored her. Loretta also lost her dear cousin Pete Fitzwater of North East, MD, too soon in 2022. 

Finally, like Loretta, we wish to honor and thank the incredible caregivers (Kirstin, Jacob, Vivi), nurses and staff at Autumn Lake Healthcare at Calvert Manor, Elkton Nursing and Rehabilitation, and Union Hospital. May God bless you all. 

Donations in Loretta’s honor can be made to Cecil County Animal Services at www.mygiving.net/donate/CCAScareOfCSF

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