Carolyn Marie Moynihan passed away peacefully surrounded by family and loved ones on June 9, at the age of 84.
Carolyn was born on September 23, 1937 in South Bend, Indiana to George and Helen Filchak. She grew up in South Bend and after graduating high school she moved to Tucson, Arizona, where she worked at Hughes Aircraft while also attending the University of Arizona. There she received her Bachelors in Art. In 1967, Carolyn and her young family moved to Upstate New York. Busy with raising a family, she wanted to become a teacher and attended SUNY Oneonta where she completed her Master’s in Education, and soon after started her teaching career as an art teacher. Carolyn started her teaching career in the Bainbridge Public Schools System and then taught in the Oneonta Public School System for over 20 years. There she became Director of the Art Program at Oneonta High School, where she was able to nurture the natural talents of many students who went on to become distinguished artists in their own right. Along with her students, Carolyn created the iconic Yellowjacket mascot logo that graces the walls at the high school today. She founded the OHS Art Club, the gifted and talented program at Greater Plains elementary school, among other programs throughout the school district.
Being from South Bend, she was a true Notre Dame football fan. She also loved baseball and spent countless evenings watching her beloved Yankees. Carolyn loved the game of golf. She admired the beauty of the golf course and the ultimate competition of the game.
After retiring from teaching, Carolyn moved to Greenwich to be closer to her family. There she dove into her creativity. She played classical piano, was an accomplished artist and a self-published author. Carolyn painted a series of over 30 landscapes and seascapes which she called Places of Dreams which she sold and displayed at various venues in town. Carolyn sought out art and culture wherever she went and loved sharing her knowledge and experiences.
She is survived by her children Moira Napolitano (Frank) of Greenwich, CT, Brigit Moynihan of Greenwich CT; her granddaughter Claire Grace Napolitano and a large extended family in South Bend, IN.
In her memory, donations may be made to Nathaniel Witherell Nursing Home in Greenwich, CT. A memorial will be held in September. If you wish for more information, please contact moiranap@gmail.com.
