Obituary: Carol Ann Malysiak of Brockhall, Northampton

Carol Ann Malysiak, nee Clarges, age 77, passed away December 27, 2025, with her loving family at her side.

Born April 24, 1948, in Sheffield, England to her loving parents Francis and Jean Clarges. Beloved wife of James Malysiak of Galena, Illinois USA; loving mother of Jon Malysiak of Brockhall, Northampton; Sarah Brenner (Michael) of Hinsdale, Illinois and the late Colin Malysiak of Dillon, Colorado; cherished grandmother of Isla Brenner.

Carol was the only daughter of seven brothers: Michael, Peter, Stephen, and Russell (all deceased) Clarges, and survived by her younger brothers Martin, Mark, and Simon Clarges of Northampton.

Carol lived a life grounded in family, curiosity, and quiet determination, offering steadfast love and wisdom to those closest to her. An avid horseback rider, boating enthusiast, and devoted gardener, Carol found deep joy in the natural world. She loved music, hiking, and skiing in Colorado, and divided her time between Galena, Illinois and Brockhall, Northamptonshire, fully embracing the landscapes and communities of both. She delighted in time spent with her granddaughter Isla, encouraging her love of the arts and the outdoors and teaching her to always remain curious about the world.

Carol was also a devoted dog lover, especially fond of Seamus, her son Colin’s yellow Labrador, and Hugo, her son Jonathan’s yellow Labrador. She met James Malysiak when he was a student at Magdalen College, University of Oxford, and they were married on June 27, 1970, at the Magdalen College Chapel, beginning a partnership that spanned more than five decades.

Carol’s resilience and strength carried her through many challenges throughout her life, remaining evident until the very end, and continued to be a lasting source of inspiration to her family and to all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service will be held on Friday 30 January 2026 at 11am at the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Brockhall, Northampton.