Carol Alyce Svensen
Carol Alyce Svensen
Carol Alyce Svensen (72), of Jamestown NY, died on Sunday October 11, 2020 after complications from surgery. As a musician, performer, teacher, and administrator, Carol spent much of her life in Jamestown, New York. Carol was best known for her presence on the bandstand with a trumpet, piano, or church organ, always appearing with a supportive smile and excellent musicianship.
Born in Girard, PA, Carol was a graduate of Thiel College and adjunct faculty member of the Jamestown Community College Music Department. Carol spent her life in service to two distinct communities: supporting programs for people with physical and mental disabilities and as an active member of the arts community. For many years she served as Human Resources Manager at The Resource Center and Filling The Gap, Inc. As an artist, Carol was active in many local musical and theater communities. Carol performed at Jamestown Community College, Little Theater of Jamestown, the historic Colored Musicians Club of Buffalo, Chautauqua Institution, and other venues across the southern tier. She performed regularly as organist at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and Hurlbut Church at Chautauqua Institution before that. She was a member of the Ladies First Big Band (Buffalo), Curt and Carol, JCC Jazz Ensemble & Concert Band, the JCC & Little Theatre musical pit orchestras.
Carol and her family were recipients of the Family of Year award Jamestown YMCA (1992). She served as President Jamestown Area Arts Council, 1974-1976; on the board of directors Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc., Mayville, 1978; Member of the Little Theatre of Jamestown (board president 1983-1985); Stagecraft Guild, Little Theatre; Chautauqua Area Human Resource Association; Secretary of the Board, American Federation of Musicians Local 134, Jamestown, NY; Order of the Eastern Star; and co-founder of Jamestown’s Theater of Young Artists (TOYA). These are only a few of Carol’s achievements during a lifetime of service to her communities and the arts in western New York.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Lucille Svensen. Carol is survived by two sons, Sheridan Smith and Alexander (Lily) Svensen, grandson Oscar, and beloved cousins across the US and in Norway. There will be a private graveside burial for family and a small group of friends. Tributes in Carol’s name may be made to Infinity Performing Arts of Jamestown NY, infinityperformingarts .org/. Messages to the family and memories of Carol may be sent to alexmsvensen@gmail.com.