Carol Ann Becker Creel, 77, of Garner, NC, and formerly of Jacksonville, IL, died Sunday, February 23, 2025, in Raleigh, NC.

She was born March 3, 1947, in Jacksonville, the daughter of Howard and Ana Mae (Aufdenkamp) Becker. She married Gearl E. Creel on July 26, 1970, in Jacksonville.

Carol is survived by her husband, Gearl of Garner, NC; sons, Michael (Amy) Creel of Raleigh, NC and Carl (Samira) Creel of Glenn Allen, VA; grandchildren, Aidan, Hannah, Layla, and Nadia Creel; brother, Edward (Jennifer) Becker; nephew, Ian (Erin) Becker and their baby, Silas; and many other family members. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Carol graduated from Jacksonville High School, the class of 1965. She also graduated from the University of Illinois in 1969 with a degree in Home Economics. She worked as the home economist for Central Illinois Light Company and was the local "Miss CILCo", but she loved being a stay-at-home mom when she could. Because of her home economics background, she was a wonderful cook and enjoyed teaching cooking classes through her work. She even had several original recipes published in cookbook anthologies over the years. Carol loved her family and will be greatly missed.

A funeral service will be held 7:00 PM Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville, with a private burial at Diamond Grove. The family will meet friends at the funeral home from 6:00 PM until the time of service. Memorial donations are suggested to Camp Courage in Jacksonville, a summer camp for disabled and mentally challenged children. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.