Roll Call Tribute

Carol Annette (Rick) Shipley 

January 20, 1962 - December 2, 2024 

On Monday, December 2, 2024, Carol (Rick) Shipley passed away suddenly at her home in Beverly Hills, Florida. Words cannot begin to describe the profound heartbreak and void her passing leaves behind. To know Carol was to love her.

Carol possessed a warmth that instantly put people at ease. She was the embodiment of kindness, with a brilliant mind, a light heart, and an incredible sense of humor. Her quick wit and infectious laughter made every moment brighter. Carol had an incredible gift for listening, making you feel truly special as she remembered even the smallest details from past conversations. She lived her life with a servant’s heart, always ready to comfort, help, and love those around her.

She shared a special bond and an entrepreneurial spirit with the love of her life, her husband, Michael Shipley. Carol and Mike met while attending Texas A&M University. She really loved her Aggies!! This began a love story that spanned over 40 beautiful years. Together, they owned and operated Island Bay Resort, a premier boutique hotel in Tavernier, near Key Largo, Florida. After 21 years of hard work and success, they sold the resort upon their retirement, beginning their journey of travel, adventure and enjoying the fruits of their labor.

Carol was a proud patriot who loved her country and lived the American Dream. A product of Catholic education in Houston, she attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel Grade School and graduated from Mount Carmel High School, where she excelled in sports and led the Mt. Carmel Cadets as majorette in 1980. Her faith and values shaped a life of integrity, honor, and selfless dedication. She was strong, resilient, and always ready to roll up her sleeves to tackle any challenge. She loved her family and friends and was intentional about staying connected.

Carol was born in Houston, Texas (a true Southern Belle, always remembering to “bring a gift” when visiting). She was predeceased by her parents, George and Rita Rick, her brothers, Jordy and Arthur Rick, and brother-in-law, John Kowpak. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Michael Shipley, her sister Maureen (John) McVicker, her sisters-in-law Eileen Rick, Chris (Steve) Vestal, Darline Hurst, Marcine Kowpak and Kathy (Mark) Huse and numerous nieces and nephews who adored her. Carol was a woman of faith, strength, joy and immeasurable love. Her light touched everyone she encountered, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life for Carol’s extraordinary life will be held on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 11:00 am the family will receive guests, the service at 12:00 pm, with a reception and lunch to follow from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. at Fero Funeral Home & Life Celebration Center in Beverly Hills at 5955 North Lecanto Highway, Beverly Hills, FL 34465. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Tunnels to Towers https://t2t.org/ . Rest in peace Carol. You are irreplaceable and will be forever loved and missed.