Freda Carlson

Freda Carlson, 75, passed away on April 21, 2026. Born on July 7, 1950, in Pennington Gap, Virginia, she lived a life defined by devotion, kindness, and quiet strength. She will leave a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Known for being incredibly patient, calm, and understanding, Freda was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She was creative, had a keen attention to detail, and could plan a gathering with ease, making every occasion feel special and thoughtfully arranged. She was a wonderful cook and hostess, and loved having her family around the table for a meal every chance she could. For many years, Freda was a dedicated member of the United Church of God, where she faithfully served her church community. She served on the church’s local Board of Directors for over two decades, and she loved to help with church events and social activities. Her life reflected her deep faith and her commitment to caring for others. Nowhere was this more evident than in her unwavering devotion to her husband, Brian Carlson, whom she cared for through Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with remarkable compassion and selflessness until the end of her life. They would have been married for 55 years on April 25th of this year. Freda dedicated many years to her career at Monrovia Elementary School, where she was a familiar, friendly, and supportive face to students and staff alike. She held many roles over the years, ultimately retiring as an administrative assistant in 2012. Above all, Freda was a devoted mother and grandmother. She poured her heart into her daughters, giving them her love, her time, and never-ending understanding and compassion. She was the kind of mom everyone hopes for - present, caring, and endlessly supportive. She extended that same devotion to her grandchildren. She was the ultimate Mamie, and was at her happiest when she was on the floor playing with her grandchildren, reading them books, shopping for clothes and toys for them, and generally spoiling them rotten. After visits to her home, she would often send them off with bags full of candy and a drink in their hand. She is survived by her husband, Brian Carlson; her two daughters, Leigh Parsley (Ben) and Cara Swenson (Ben); and her grandchildren, Adelle, Lydia, Isla, Micah, and Erik. She was preceded in death by her mother, Thelma Johnson, in 2019, and her brother, David, in 2022. Freda had a way of making people feel at ease. It didn’t take long for anyone to recognize her wit and kindness. Her presence was truly special, and her absence will be deeply felt. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, and the many lives she touched through her generosity, service, and love. Friends and family are invited to visit from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia. A service will begin at 3:00 pm at the funeral home. Burial will be held privately at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Hall. Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to A Senior Retreat Senior Services, Inc., via Venmo @ASRSS or mailed to 609 S. Lincoln St., Martinsville, IN 46151. To share a favorite story, sign the online guest registry, or light a candle in Freda’s memory, please visit her tribute page at www.lightmemorial.com

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Freda Carlson

July 7, 1950 - April 21, 2026