Carol Ann Paterson

Carol Ann (Lawson) Paterson, age 82, of Redding and longtime resident of Ridgefield, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 10, 2026. She was the cherished wife of the late John Nash Paterson. 

Born in Canton, Ohio, on November 8, 1943, Carol was the daughter of Frederick and Mildred (Barker) Lawson. She attended The Ohio State University, earning her undergraduate degree, and later completed her master’s in special education at Southern Connecticut University. Carol and John, high school sweethearts, first met while both served in leadership roles in Junior Achievement. They were married in June 1965 and shared a life that took them to several states before settling in Connecticut. After retiring in Bonita Springs, Florida, Carol and John returned to Connecticut to be closer to family. 

Carol devoted more than thirty years to teaching, with the majority of her career spent in the Ridgefield Public School System, primarily at Veteran’s Park Elementary School. She was passionate about bike riding, gardening, tennis, skiing, boating, and travel. A talented watercolorist, Carol enjoyed sharing her artwork at the Meadow Ridge art show. Above all, her greatest happiness came from spending time with her family and friends. 

Carol is survived by her daughter, Cortney Uritz and her husband, Louis, as well as her two granddaughters, Chloe and Sydney. She is also survived by her sisters, Marlene Gustafson and Elaine Shearer. 

A memorial service celebrating Carol’s life will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the First Congregational Church, 103 Main Street, Ridgefield, where she was a longtime member. Family and friends are invited to a reception in Lund Hall immediately following the service. Interment will take place privately; there will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Carol’s name to a charity of your choice. 

Kane Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

A Zoom Meeting of the Memorial Service will be available here:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88525109145?pwd=K9rFWrHhD6OML9haIaiqFaaNlHZoTd.1

Meeting ID: 885 2510 9145

Passcode: 154361