Carol Ann (Kipper) LaValla

Frankfort — On Thursday, March 16, 2023, Carol Ann LaValla, loving wife and mother of four, died in the comfort of her home at age 75.

A lifelong Frankfort resident, Carol Ann was born on June 4, 1947, in Ilion, NY to the late Frank and Mary (Caruso) Kipper. The oldest of four children, she is survived by her sister Sylvia (Gary) Grippe; brothers, John (Emily) Kipper and Frank (Cindy) Kipper.

Carol Ann married the love of her life, Anthony LaValla, on July 31, 1965, at the former St. Mary's Church in Frankfort. The couple shared a dynamic, devoted marriage of 54 years until Anthony’s passing on June 3, 2020.

The proud mother of four daughters, Carol Ann leaves behind Gina LaValla and Scott Campione of Venice, Florida, Lorrie Bass and husband Mike of Mohawk, Tamara LaValla and Ward Cochran of North Carolina, and Michelle Griffin and husband Harold of Frankfort.

Cherished grandchildren include GiaVanna Campione, Brittany Bass and Tim, Michael Bass and wife Kaitlyn, and Samantha Griffin and Nicholas; she is also survived by her great grandchildren, Camryn, Ariana, Sophia, Timothy, Greta, Toni, Kolton, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

A graduate of Frankfort-Schuyler High School (1965), Carol Ann enjoyed her natural affinity for the creative throughout her life. She earned her degree in cosmetology, eventually owning her own beauty salon, operated a home-based ceramics studio, and shared her love of interior decoration working within the drapery department of the former Montgomery Wards. 

Above all else, Carol Ann was known for an enduring allegiance to family. She was happiest when her loved ones were at her side and delighted in hosting special occasions. The first to rise, she would shop and cook for days, eating only after everyone else was seated. 

A resilient, capable woman, she treasured a regular “girl’s night” with lifelong friends, Linda Shibley (70 years), neighbor Judy Butts, sister-in-law Mary Ann LaValla, and cousin Patty Caruso. Her love affair with carnivals, candy, and casinos remains unmatched.

Steeped in a strong Catholic faith, her family and friends rely on the knowledge that Carol Ann’s passing was peaceful and that she is finally — and eternally — reunited with “her man,” Anthony, in heaven.

Her family extends their gratitude to Sergeants Matt Palumbo and Mike Perritano, and their fellow EMTs, for their special care and attention.

The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Thursday, March 23, 2023 from 5–7 pm at the Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to Hannaford Markets), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY 315-866-1500. A prayer service will follow at 7:00 pm at the chapel of the funeral home with Deacon James Bower officiating. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Frankfort, in late Spring.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.