Carol Nancy

Madigan

In Loving Memory of Carol Nancy Madigan

October 2, 1946 – November 5, 2026

Carol Nancy Madigan, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on November 5, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on October 2, 1946, in Orange, New Jersey, Carol was the daughter of the late Harry and Byrthe (Nanny) Carragher. She grew up in Bethesda, MD, where she developed a lifelong love of golf and where she met her husband Tom formerly of Pittsburgh, PA. She met Tom at Georgetown University Dental School and managed his dental practice for their entire careers. Carol and Tom raised their family in Potomac, Maryland. After many wonderful years in Potomac, Carol retired to Bethany Beach, Delaware, where she enjoyed the next chapter of her life on the beach and golf course.

Carol was the Maryland State Junior Amateur Golf Champion and competed in multiple United States Golf Association (USGA) events during her youth. She also earned the distinction of Bethesda Country Club’s Women's Golf Champion, accomplishments that reflected her dedication, competitive spirit, and love of the game.

Carol's passion for athletics became a lasting family legacy. She passed her love of competition on to her children and grandchildren, introducing them to competitive swimming and golf. Her encouragement and influence helped inspire the next generations of her family to pursue their athletic dreams, ultimately resulting in multiple collegiate athletic scholarships for swimming, golf and lacrosse.

Carol's involvement in swimming extended well beyond her own family. She spent many years on the pool deck serving as a Maryland Swimming (MCSL) and USA Swimming Stroke and Turn judge, supporting young athletes and competitive swimming.

Golf remained a lifelong passion. Carol continued competing throughout her life as a member of both the Bethesda Country Club and Cripple Creek Country Club Women's Golf Teams, maintaining the friendships, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit that had been such an important part of her life.

Carol also believed in supporting causes that made a difference. She was an avid supporter of the Alzheimer's Association , frequently participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's. Her involvement reflected her commitment to raising awareness and supporting the fight against Alzheimer's disease which Tom passed away from in 2018.

Above all, Carol loved being a grandmother. She spent countless hours traveling across the country to watch her grandchildren compete in their athletic events. Whether it meant a long drive, a flight, or a weekend away, she was there cheering them on and celebrating their accomplishments. Her grandchildren always knew they had one of their biggest fans in the stands.

When she wasn't following her grandchildren's athletic pursuits, Carol enjoyed cheering on her favorite NFL teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers or Washington Redskins, with her family.

Carol was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Thomas John Madigan, and her parents, Harry and Byrthe (Nanny) Carragher.

She is survived by her three children and her sister Sharon DeWilde (Borga).

• Kelly (Peter) Thomas
• Shannon (Bill Magro) Madigan
• Sean and (Sara) Madigan
• 
  

Carol was a proud grandmother to Patrick, Megan, Ryan, Erin, Drew, and Kyle, who brought tremendous joy to her life.

Carol will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband at Arlington National Cemetery. Memorial services will follow, with details to be announced.

May she rest in peace and be reunited with her beloved husband and parents.