Obituaries

Carol Mae Hodge Minogue, 84, passed peacefully on July 1, 2025, at Community Hospice in Fernandina Beach, Florida, surrounded by the love and prayers of her devoted family.

Born on February 1, 1941, in Covington, Kentucky, Carol was the eldest daughter of eight siblings raised by John and Hazel Hodge. From a young age, she embodied warmth, selflessness, and quiet strength, often stepping in as a guiding hand and “second mother” to her younger brothers and sisters.

She met her husband and “most important person” Mike at a high school canteen. It’s unclear whether she was initially interested in him or his brand new car, but they were married 65 years, so there must have been something about him she loved.

Carol’s career as a Catholic school teacher reflected her deep commitment to education, faith, and nurturing others—but her true calling was family. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, she poured her whole heart into every moment. She raised three beloved children—Colleen, Theresa, and Patrick—and reveled in the joy of being “Grandma” to six grandchildren, each of whom brought her endless pride and delight.

Life’s changes never rattled Carol. Over the course of Mike’s career, the family moved eight times, and Carol became a master “moving truck supervisor.” She was the glue that held her family’s adventures together.

Carol loved playing board games, cards, and golf with her friends and family. She was extremely competitive and was thrilled to win a local golf club championship and countless Scrabble games. During their many years together, Mike and Carol traveled extensively with friends and family all over the United States, as well as visiting 53 countries throughout the world.

Her faith was her anchor. A devout Catholic, Carol never hesitated to offer a rosary and a prayer for anyone in need. Her generosity extended beyond her family: she was a longtime volunteer at her local hospital, library, parish, and Catholic school. She never missed sending a birthday or anniversary card, each one written with her signature thoughtfulness and love.

Carol is deeply missed by her husband, Mike; her daughter, Colleen Gale (Ron) and grandchildren, Catherine and Ryan; daughter, Theresa Bridge (Wade) and grandchildren, Riley and Charlie; son, Patrick Minogue (Meredith) and grandchildren, Aidan and Brady; her sister-in-law, Maureen Fassel (Jack); two surviving brothers, three sisters, and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and treasured friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.

Carol’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 10:00am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (2470 Lorraine Ct, Crescent Springs, KY 41017) with burial immediately following at Mother of God Cemetery (3125 Madison Ave., Latonia, KY 41015). In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in Carol’s name to the Covenant House at the link provided below.

Make a donation to Covenant House (NY) in memory of Carol Mae Minogue