Carol Ann Shott

Carol Ann Shott, born May 1, 1936, in Idaho Falls, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, in Folsom, California. With a heart full of love and a spirit touched by kindness, Carol’s journey through life was one of dedication to family, education, and the joy of simple moments.

Growing up in Pocatello, Idaho, after her family moved there in 1937, Carol’s childhood was filled with laughter and outdoor adventures. She cherished games like Run my Sheepie Run and kick the can, playing with neighborhood children and treasuring the close bonds with friends. A special memory from her youth includes walking to her grandparents’ home with her best friend, Glenda Empey, where they delighted in playing croquet with her grandfather. At age 12, Carol embraced her role in the International Order of Job’s Daughters, eventually becoming Honored Queen alongside her older sisters, a testament to her leadership and community spirit even at a young age.

Carol’s educational path mirrored her diligent and nurturing nature. After attending Idaho State College from 1954 to 1956, she transferred to Colorado State College in Greeley, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education in 1958. That same year marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership, as she married Leonard Shott on June 15, 1958, their honeymoon spent amidst the majestic beauty of Glacier National Park. Together, they nurtured a family committed to a Christ-centered foundation built on love, encouragement, and support.

Her career as an educator spanned decades and states, shaping young lives with her passion for physical education. She taught junior and high school P.E. in Fort Collins, Colorado, from 1958 to 1959. Between 1965 and 1967, she exemplified remarkable determination, pursuing her Master’s degree in Physical Education while parenting three preschool-aged daughters and managing household responsibilities. Sharing a typewriter with Leonard during his Ph.D. studies in Veterinary Pathology, their partnership was one of mutual support and shared dreams. In 1967, their family moved to Reston, Virginia, where Carol taught elementary and junior high P.E., and in 1971, they settled in Los Altos, California, continuing her beloved vocation.

Those who knew Carol remember her as a happy and hospitable hostess, with a wit that charmed friends and family alike. She took immense joy in cooking wonderful meals and welcoming loved ones into her home, fostering gatherings filled with warmth and laughter. Deeply involved in her church community, Carol found purpose in faith and friendship. Her patient encouragement, urging her children always to "be themselves," nurtured a sense of confidence and individuality that blossomed in each of her daughters.

Carol's love for the outdoors remained steadfast throughout her life. Camping trips, especially to Richardson's Grove, created treasured family memories. Her playful heart delighted in joining neighborhood children for games, embodying the joy and innocence that defined her own childhood.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years, Leonard Shott; her beloved daughters, Debbie (Shott) Patterson, Vickie (Shott) Underwood, and Lori (Shott) Ross; her sister, Donna (Wilson) Boosinger; along with seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren who carry forward her legacy of love and resilience. Carol was preceded in death by her father, Wendell Wickham Wilson, her mother, Ina Mae (Barber) Wilson, and her sister, Janet (Wilson) Boosinger.

Carol Ann Shott’s journey may have come to a peaceful close, but the light she ignited in the hearts of her family and friends will shine brightly, a lasting beacon of love, strength, and kindness. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and eternally cherished.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday April 18, 2026 at Pleasant Grove Community Church, 1730 Pleasant Grove Blvd, Roseville, CA 95747 at 11:30 am, followed by a reception. In Lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research | Parkinson's Disease via the following link: https://give.michaeljfox.org/campaign/774477/donate