Carol J. Paris, 88, of Ottumwa, died February 16, 2025 at her home.
She was born November 13, 1936 in Belknap to Lewis “Bud” Edgar and Alta Faye Post Paris.
Growing up in Belknap, Carol graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1955. She earned her teaching certificate from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College and earned her bachelor’s degree in science and education August 10, 1967
Carol taught in Batavia and for 13 years in Eldon. She then worked in New Town Harris, Missouri for 23 years, teaching 3rd and 4th grade, retiring in 1997.
Carol loved horses, especially standard bred. She was a member of the Iowa Colt Stakes and the Iowa Harness Horse Racing Association where she served 61 years as a race secretary. Carol has also been a member of the U.S. Trotting Association since 1962. She earned her harness racing driver’s license in 1973. Carol was inducted into the IHHA Hall of Fame in 1998.
Surviving are her nephews, Tony (Linda) Paris, Randy (Cindy) Paris, both of Ottumwa, Rodney (Tracy) Paris and Reid (Norma) Paris, both of Altoona; a niece, Tammy Whittington, of Ottumwa; and numerous great nephews and great nieces.
She is preceded in death by her parents; an infant sister and infant brother; brothers, Ronald Paris and Eddie Paris; nephew, Todd Paris and niece, Rhonda Westcot.
Visitation will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 19th at Reece Funeral Home with her family present to greet friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, February 20th at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Phil Griffith officiating. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorial may be made to the family.
