Carol Anne Sears

On the morning of December 26, 2023, at sunrise, Carol Anne Sears, 77, was called home to heaven to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Carol was born on December 5, 1946, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Stewart and Lola Chmela, both of whom preceded her in death.

Carol is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Sears, and granddaughter, Ashley Sears, along with her six sisters, Allene McAllister (Gordon), Barbara Chmela, Denise Chmela-Gerdon, Karla Turner, LaDona Cooper (Dan), and Wanda Tennessen (Fred), as wells as many beloved nieces and nephews, aunties, uncles, and cousins. Carol never missed an opportunity to spend time or talk with family. It was one of her greatest joys in life.

Carol’s spirit carried a light that drew others near to her. She had an infectious laugh that was a delight to all. She had a heart made for service to others and was never happier than when she left someone or someplace better than when she found it. Carol loved people loudly and told them so, often. She was quick to uplift others and offer encouragement to chase their dreams. Carol’s hugs were always warm, welcoming, and complete.

Carol enjoyed nature and took every opportunity to soak up the sunshine and fresh air surrounded by the plants, flowers, and hummingbirds that filled her backyard and her heart with happiness. She also enjoyed reading, baking, sewing, dancing, bowling, watching sports, and traveling. Carol was fascinated by electrical storms and astronomy. For Carol, every sunrise and sunset were works of art. She also appreciated fine art and delighted in seeing the work of Claude Monet.

Carol’s livelihood was rooted in excellent service. Carol spent many years with the Boeing Aerospace Company. She fell in love with table-games dealing when interacting with a card dealer while on a vacation to Lake Tahoe. Years later she moved to Las Vegas, attended table games dealing school, and began her career at the Golden Gate Hotel and Casino on Fremont Street. From there she worked at several properties including Slots of Fun, O’Shea’s, The Flamingo Hilton, The Venetian, Texas Station, and Santa Fe Station. Over the duration of her career in table games dealing Carol was awarded countless times for her excellence in customer service and mastery of card dealing.

Carol’s faith in Jesus Christ was unwavering. She will be remembered for all of the love and joy she exhibited in all facets of her life.

A gathering of friends and family will be held in the spring.

In Carol’s honor, memorial donations may be made to Faith Communications Corp. (SOS Radio) www.sosradio.net; Soul Formation at www.soulformation.org/donate/payment; and St. Jude Childrens Hospital at www.stjude.org.