03/16/2026
Carol Jean Eller Obituary
Carol Jean Eller, age 83, of Owosso, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – Jennings-Lyons Chapel, located at 520 West Main Street, Owosso, Michigan 48867. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, located at 1209 Coutant Street, Flushing, Michigan 48433, with Pastor Brian F. Heidt officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.
Carol was born on March 25, 1942, in the quaint town of Owosso, Michigan, to her loving parents, David and Esther Otto. After completing her education at Owosso High School, she pursued further studies at Baker College. On June 6, 1962, Carol embarked on a beautiful journey of love and companionship when she married Harold Eller at the historic Salem Lutheran Church in Owosso. Their union marked the beginning of a remarkable partnership that flourished over the decades, built on mutual respect and devotion until Harold's passing on September 25, 2022.
Carol's life was deeply intertwined with her faith, as she devoted a significant portion of her time serving her church communities. She worked diligently for 16 years as a secretary at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Flushing, where her organizational skills and commitment to service shone, leading to her retirement on March 31, 1997. Her passion for her work extended beyond one church, as she also contributed part-time to St. Phillip Lutheran Church in Owosso and United In Christ Lutheran Church in Flint, cultivating a sense of connection and collaboration among the congregations.
In addition to her church commitments, Carol thrived as a Tupperware consultant for an impressive 30 years. Her enthusiasm for the products and natural charisma made her a favorite among customers. Carol cherished the experiences that came with her role, traveling frequently for sales events across the country, including lively trips to Las Vegas, where she enjoyed the city's vibrant energy while creating lasting memories with friends. A woman of many interests, Carol was an avid reader, amassing an extensive collection of books and music. She sang in a choir and gave a few special performances at weddings. Sewing was another of her cherished hobbies, as well as being a vendor at the original Owosso Farmers Market, a community staple that her father helped establish.
Traveling also brought Carol joy. She explored every state east of the Mississippi River, as well as Missouri and Nevada, each journey enriching her life with new experiences and adventures. Carol’s cheerful, helpful, and fearless nature endeared her to many, as she was known for her engaging conversations and uncanny ability to make friends wherever she went. She remained an active and committed member of her community, always staying involved and contributing her time and energy.
Carol is survived by her sons, Mark (Kristine Keck) Eller and Dan (Melissa) Eller, along with her grandchildren, Donaven, Elizabeth, and Zackary, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were touched by her warmth and kindness. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold, her parents, David and Esther Otto, and her sister, Mary Ann.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Cross Lutheran Church, St. Phillip Lutheran Church, or the Hospice House of Shiawassee County.
