Carol Dunlap

Carol Dunlap, age 75, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, at Lillington Health and Rehabilitation in Lillington, North Carolina.
Carol was born on March 30, 1950, in Upland, Pennsylvania, to Charles Lloyd and Evelyn Harpster. She experienced loss early in life with the passing of her mother in 1958, a hardship that helped shape her strength and resilience.

She spent most of her life in the Philadelphia area, where she worked on and off as a security guard. Carol was known for her strong work ethic, quiet determination, and caring nature. In 1968, she married John Ruda, and together they raised their family. In later years, Carol found love again and married Alton Dunlap of DuBois, Pennsylvania, in 1990. In 2011, she moved to North Carolina with her daughter and son-in-law, later settling in Fuquay-Varina in 2015.

Carol found great joy in caring for others. She loved cooking for her family, ensuring no one ever left her home hungry, and she had a special fondness for her parakeets, whom she tended with affection and pride. Her home was a place of warmth, comfort, and simple pleasures. She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn (Matthew) Olson of Raleigh, North Carolina; her son, John (Jessica) Ruda of Dearborn, Michigan; her brothers, Buddy (Dolly) Lloyd of DuBois, Pennsylvania, and Tom (Gabriel) Lloyd of Warner Robins, Georgia. Carol also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and many dear friends who will miss her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Butch Lloyd of Upland, Pennsylvania; her former husband, Alton Dunlap; and her parents. Carol’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her gentle spirit, and the quiet love she gave so freely throughout her life.