Obituary of Carolyn Bobby Costa

Carolyn Bobby Costa

(nee Harris)

Carolyn Bobby Harris Costa, passed away peacefully at the age of 80, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in Shorewood, IL.  Carolyn was born in Sheffield, AL, on November 23, 1943, the only daughter of the late William and Pauline (nee Hampton) Harris. Born into a military family, Carolyn moved to Germany at an early age before the family settled in Elwood, IL.   She was a graduate of Joliet Township High School and furthered her education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting.  Carolyn retired in 2018 as a Budget Analyst from the Department of Energy at Argonne National Lab after almost 30 dedicated years.

 Carolyn was a generous and optimistic soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. Her understanding, supportive nature and intellectual curiosity made her a vibrant, beautiful presence in our lives. A loving and family-oriented woman, she found joy in the company of her family and those dear to her. Her passion for literature, theatre, classical music and fashion, as well as the iconic tunes of the 60s and 70s was infectious. She inspired those around her to appreciate the beauty in the world. She cherished intellectual dinner conversations; where her wit, warmth, laughter and love shone brightly. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she was a devoted Mother and homemaker. Ultimately, of greatest importance to her was the happiness, well-being, educational opportunities and successes of her two daughters and four grandchildren. She wanted her legacy to live on through them. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the absolute joy she brought into our lives.

Carolyn is survived by her two daughters, Cynthia (Gino) Vaccarella and Caroline Suzanne (Robert Palon) Costa; four grandchildren, Jason and Ava Vaccarella and Naomi and Vivian Stahl; and her former spouse of 34 years and the father of her daughters, Anthony Costa.

She is preceded by her parents; and two brothers, William Harris and Jerry Harris.

Visitation for Carolyn Bobby Harris Costa will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL from 12:00 noon until the Funeral Service at 3:30 p.m.  Entombment will be on Monday, November 25, 2024 at Woodlawn Memorial Park for close family. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name to Multiple Sclerosis Association of America or to the Smile Train would be appreciated.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.