MISHAWAKA - Carol Staples, 83, passed away at home Sunday morning after a long illness. She was born to Robert and Margaret Thomas in Elkhart. She married Glen E. Staples and together they would live in the Michiana area. Carol attended Granger Community Church of God. She liked writing music, singing in the choir, knitting, crocheting and was very artistic. Her children and grandchildren were a very special part of her life and she held a special place for them in her heart. She also had many close friends. Carol was a volunteer for the Leprosy Clinic in Mauldin, South Carolina when she resided there. Surviving are daughters Kimberly Staples, Cristi Staples, Andrea (Russ) Ether and Susanna(Tom) Stolwell, ten grandchildren and nine great - grandchildren and sister, Jean Bearquiver. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Brett Staples and brothers, Robert Thomas Junior and Donald Thomas. A gathering of friends and family will be Thursday, October 15 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Highway, Osceola, IN 46561 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm. A private burial will be at a later day. Memorial contributions can be made to Hope Ministries, 532 South Michigan Street, South Bend, IN 46601