Mindy K. Carmen

SALEM -Mindy Kay Carmen, passed away peacefully in her home on November 14, 2024, at the age of 65. Mindy was born on September 9, 1959, in Salem. She grew up in Kensington and later moved to Salem, where she was a longtime resident and a cherished member of the community.
Mindy was predeceased by her parents, Homer Carmen and Ruth (Ridgeway) Kellogg. Her spirit is carried on by her loving family, her stepmother, Joyce Carmen; her daughter, Melody McConnell and her husband Stephen, of Beloit; her son, James Strait, of Rogers; her brother, Jerry Carmen, of Carrollton; her sisters, Audrey Coldsnow and her husband Russell, of East Rochester, Louise Webb and her husband Mike, of Salem; Diane Hardy and her husband Kenny, of East Rochester and her step-sister, Steph Allison of Kensington. Mindy's joy was multiplied by her four adoring grandchildren, Seth, Austin, Logan and Kelsie and one great grandchild, Nyah who will miss her dearly. Her extended family includes many nieces and nephews.
Mindy dedicated many years of service to the Salem City School District, where she worked in the custodial department until her well-deserved retirement in 2019. Her commitment to her work and the well-being of the school's environment earned her the respect and friendship of her colleagues and the broader school community.
Those who knew Mindy will fondly remember her for the love and care she extended to everyone around her. She possessed a remarkable ability to make others feel welcomed and valued, radiating warmth and kindness wherever she went. Mindy's friendly demeanor and loving nature were the cornerstones of her character, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
An active and engaged member of the Salem community, Mindy enjoyed spending quality time with her children, grandchildren, and her extended family and friends. Her greatest joy was found in caring for others, as well as rescuing homeless cats, a testament to her selfless and giving spirit.
Mindy's interests extended beyond her family and work. She embraced life with an open heart and found happiness in the simple pleasures. Her presence was a source of comfort and joy to those she spent time with, and her absence will be deeply felt by many.
As we bid farewell to Mindy Kay Carmen, we celebrate a life lived with immense love and kindness. Her legacy is one of compassion and friendship, and it will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched. Mindy's memory will be cherished and honored by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to experience her gentle soul.
Mindy's life will be commemorated in a ceremony, surrounded by her family and friends on December 15, 2024, from 1-4 p.m. at the Hidden Abbey in Homeworth. They will gather to share memories, support each other, and honor the beautiful life that she led. Mindy will forever be remembered as a beacon of love and kindness, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her to live with the same generosity and warmth that she so effortlessly displayed. The family has asked in lieu of flowers to consider making a donation to your local animal shelter.
Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
To view Mindy's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.
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