Carol McGlinchey, a devoted mother, grandmother, and beloved educator, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on August 21, 1935, in Evansville, Indiana, Carol was the cherished daughter of the late Nicholas and Helen Fehn. Her life was one of unwavering faith, devotion to family, and an unrelenting passion for teaching.
Carol’s path in life led her to a fulfilling career dedicated to the education and spiritual growth of children. After graduating from Reitz Memorial High School in 1953, she pursued a degree in elementary education at St. Mary of the Woods College, earning her degree in 1957. Her commitment to her calling was recognized soon after when she professed vows and became Sister Ann Charlene with the Sisters of Providence. For a decade, she served the church and taught in multiple Catholic grade schools, always instilling a love of learning and faith in her students.
Her final parochial teaching assignment brought her to St. Mark Catholic Elementary School, where she touched the lives of many second graders. Later, Carol devoted an additional 10 years teaching first grade within the Indianapolis Public Schools before retiring. She was admired for her generous spirit, dedication, and ability to inspire every child to succeed, particularly in literacy. Even after her retirement, Carol continued to tutor and engage in special literacy projects, as giving back to her community was a lifelong commitment.
Following her departure from the Sisters of Providence, she married her soulmate Terry F. McGlinchey in 1967, and together they created a beautiful family. Carol’s heart swelled with pride as she and Terry welcomed four children into their lives: Michael Terrance, Kathryn Ann, Eileen Mary, and Emily Maureen. Carol’s devotion as a mother was matched only by her love for her twelve grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Gram.” Her enthusiasm for being present in their lives knew no bounds, as she celebrated over twenty years of birthdays, holidays, and milestones, and took particular joy in cheering for them at their ball games and special events.
Carol and Terry joyfully celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 30, 2017, a testament to the deep love they shared throughout their life together. Carol will always be remembered for her acts of kindness, her attentive listening ear, her infectious sense of humor, and above all, her profound faith in God.
As we mourn the loss of Carol, we celebrate her remarkable life and the countless lives she touched through her teaching, her family, and her community service. In honoring her memory, we hold dear the values she imparted and the love she shared. Carol’s legacy will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Carol is survived by her children; Michael McGlinchey, Kathryn (Robert) Benton, Eileen (Joseph) Bernstein, and Emily (Daniel) Gilbride, grandchildren; Jessica, Daniel, Brian, Molly, Nicholas, Rachel, Joseph, Christopher, Abigail, Charlie, Maggie, and Bridget, sisters-in-law; Marilyn Schwegman, and Joan (David) Tanksley, brother-in-law; Howard Schneeberger, along with many nieces and nephews.
Carol is preceded in death by her loving husband; Terry F. McGlinchey, brothers-in-law; Mark McGlinchey, and David McGlinchey, and sisters-in-law; Angie Matthews, Connie Schneeberger, and Barbara McGlinchey.
Visitation will be held on June 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, located at 6107 S East St, Indianapolis, IN 46227. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on June 18, 2025, at 11:30 AM at St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 8300 Rahke Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46217, with burial to take place immediately following at Calvary Cemetery, 435 W Troy Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225.
While we mourn her passing, we also carry forward the light and love that Carol brought into this world. She will be missed dearly but will forever live on in the cherished memories of her family and friends.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Carol’s honor to: Hunger Inc., 1416 E. Epler Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana, 46217, or Catholic Charities, 1400 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.
Please visit www.orileybranson.com to leave a memory of Carol or to sign the online guest book.
Carol was indeed a special person. My parents, Betty and John Murphy, loved all the McGlincheys and especially Carol and Terry. They were honored to be Kathryn’s godparents. Carol had a special relationship with my mother. They were both loving and caring people. My parents treasured the opportunity to be Carol and Terry. They loved hearing about her kids and her grandkids. They loved being included in your family events. Carol continued to stay in contact with my mom after my dad’s death. My mom always shared the news of the McGlinchys. Carol instilled her love of Providence in all she met. Rest in Peace.
