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Lois Elora Carlson, 101, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, in Austin, Texas. Born in Jamestown, New York, on October 8, 1924, to Merton and Marjorie Waid, Lois lived a full and extraordinary life spanning more than a century. In July 1942, she married the love of her life, Leonard Carlson, after the two met on a sleigh ride -- a story that became a cherished part of their family's history. Just months after their wedding, Leonard answered the call to serve his country during World War II, spending the next three years overseas. Together, they shared 53 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and devotion to family.
While raising their family in Jamestown, Lois dedicated herself to both family and community. A 1942 graduate of Bemus Point High School, she served on the local Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) board and as its president while her children attended school, generously giving her time to support students, families, and educators. As her children grew older, she began a full-time career in the Business and Administration Office at Jamestown Community College, where she was respected for her professionalism, dedication, and strong work ethic.
Upon retirement, Lois and Leonard moved to Cedar Park, Texas, where she continued her lifelong commitment to serving others. She was one of the eight founding members of the Treasure of the Hills Senior Center, creating a welcoming place where older adults could gather, be active, build friendships, play games, and enrich one another's lives. She was also a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Cedar Park, where her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life. Her dedication to serving others left a lasting impact on generations of families, seniors, and fellow church members alike.
Lois will also be remembered for the simple joys she brought to everyday life. She was a tremendous cook and baker whose kitchen and home were places of comfort, celebration, and togetherness. She loved hosting large holiday gatherings for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter and many family birthdays. Taking great pride in her appearance, she was always dressed to perfection, carrying herself with elegance, grace, and dignity wherever she went.
Even after losing her eyesight in her later years, Lois demonstrated extraordinary determination and independence. She continued living in her own home until the age of 99, inspiring everyone around her with her strength, courage, and spirit.
She touched countless lives through her love of family, friends, career, volunteerism, and an unwavering commitment to her community. Her memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her, and she will be deeply missed. A life well lived is measured not only by its years, but by the lives it touches; Lois' 101 years were filled with a legacy that will endure for generations.
Surviving are her daughter, Linda Marshek, who lovingly cared for her during her later years in the Austin area; her son, Leslie Carlson; six grandchildren: Nicki Bickley (Chad), Kelly Peck, Tanya Brames (Sean), Taylor Carlson (Clohe), Christopher Knight (Tammy), and Rae Carlson; seventeen great-grandchildren: William, Allison, and Kate Bickley; Bryker and Kayden Peck; Easton, Emily, Alora, and Connor Brames; Miya, Ian, Spencer, Annistyn and Olivia Carlson; and Matthew (Alison), Brandon (Abigail), and Travis Knight; as well as two great-great-grandchildren, Hudson and Evelynn Knight.
Lois now joins those who have gone before: devoted husband, Leonard (1995); infant son, Duane (1950), who passed away shortly after birth; son, Lynn Carlson (2026); parents, Merton (1977) and Marjorie Waid (1998); sister, Lila Winans (1992); brother, Roy Waid (1937); grandson-in-law, John Peck (2025); and sister-in-law, and lifelong friend, Alice Littlefield (2025).
The family wishes to especially thank her dear friends and neighbors, Cora and John Richardson, who watched over her while she was still in her home and faithfully visited her when she moved to Brookdale. They also extend their warm appreciation to Gloria and Juan Torres, whose steadfast kindness, companionship, and presence brought so much comfort and joy to Lois. The family remains profoundly grateful to the caregivers at Brookdale Northwest Hills Assisted Living for their special care and friendship during her more than two years there, and to Hospice Austin for their invaluable support during her final six months.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Treasure of the Hills Senior Center, Hospice Austin, or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. A private family service will be held at a later date. Burial will take place at Fluvanna Cemetery in Jamestown, New York, where Lois will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Leonard.
Lind Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. May she rest in eternal peace.