Carol Debes Young was born in Beaumont, Texas to Vivian and Nick Debes on June 9th, 1943 and died on May 15th, 2004 following a lengthy illness.
She is survived by her husband, Charles R. Young; son, Michael W. Besson and his wife Ellen; mother, Vivian K. Parks; and brother, Nick Debes. She also leaves numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins as well as two stepdaughters, Laurie Bachman and Lisa Jaeger. Her father, Nick Debes, Sr., preceded her in death.
A lifelong resident of Beaumont, Carol graduated from Beaumont High School, and then completed her education in 1966 at Lamar with a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education. After teaching for five years at Fletcher Elementary, she joined her mother operating the Record Rack, where she not only became known for her expertise, but also for her delightful smile. Countless customers came to know her as a friend. Carol and her husband also pioneered the video rental market as well.
Carol found her greatest joy in life through her work with the church. A lifelong member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Carol served her beloved congregation in numerous capacities, including election to the Vestry, Director of Senior Ministries and Special Events Coordinator; her loving touch is evident throughout the church. She also worked tirelessly with the Cursillio movement in the Diocese of Texas. Her greatest passion centered on helping others, which found its greatest expression through her work with the "Community of Hope," a lay chaplaincy program that found her ministering to the sick, the homebound, and the terminally ill. Carol wrote personal notes to the bereaved, created and facilitated a support group for those with chronic or terminal illness, and organized groups to deliver meals to the homebound. She created and planned St. Stephen's Annual Holiday Bazaar, a fundraiser that raised tens of thousands of dollars for charity. Her church family describes her as their very own "Angel on Assignment."
Carol enjoyed basking in her beautifully landscaped yard, as well as her dachshunds and "adopted" cats and dogs. A beautiful person, a loving wife and mother, devoted daughter and dear friend; Carol was indeed our angel who lived among us far too briefly.
Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 4090 Delaware, Beaumont with interment at St. Stephen's Columbarium under the direction of Broussard's, 1605 N Major Drive, Beaumont. A gathering of family and friends will follow the services at the Church Parish Hall.
Carol requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 4090 Delaware, Beaumont, Texas 77706 or to the American Cancer Society, P. O. Box 5144, Beaumont, Texas 77726-5144.