Carol J. Hood (née Harris), 89, of Cahokia, Illinois, entered eternal rest on April 13, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on June 5, 1936, in Chrisney, Indiana, Carol was one of thirteen children. She was a devoted homemaker who dedicated her life to caring for and loving her family. Her home was the heart of countless cherished memories, and her life was a reflection of selfless devotion, strength, and unconditional love.

Carol was married to the love of her life, Hershell Hood Sr., for nearly 45 years before his passing. She was widowed for the past 25 years, carrying his memory with her always.

Together, Carol and Hershell shared five children, with three surviving: Lisa Hood of Dupo, Illinois; Hershell Hood Jr. of St. Louis, Missouri; and Jeffrey Hood of Millstadt, Illinois. She was also blessed with five stepchildren: Jerry Hood, Karen Berkbigler, Jim Hood, Gary Hood, and the late Joyce Hood.

Carol was the proud grandmother of eight grandchildren: Stephanie Mills of Granite City, Illinois; Nicolas (Mindy) Hurt of St. Charles, Missouri; Rachel (Daniel) Naney of St. Charles, Missouri; Ashley (Johnny) Randolph of Granite City, Illinois; April (Johnathan) Bigham of Thorsby, Alabama; Meghan Hood of Troy, Illinois; Randall Hood Jr. of Belleville, Illinois; and Sierra Hood of Troy, Illinois.

She was also a loving great-grandmother to eleven great-grandchildren: Savanah, Chloe, Macy, Casey, Logan, Hunter, Mason, Chanel, Koraline, Anastasia, and Julien. In addition, Carol leaves behind many beloved step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Carol found joy in traveling throughout the United States and Canada with her husband, and she continued creating treasured memories through travel with her children and grandchildren. She was an active member of several organizations over the years, including Al-Anon, T.O.P.S., homemakers groups, and the garden club.

An avid reader and crossword enthusiast, Carol especially enjoyed books and reality game show television. Her generous spirit was evident through her regular donations to organizations supporting veterans and Native American communities, among others.

Carol was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hershell Hood Sr.; her daughter, Kimberly Parker; her son, Randall Hood Sr.; her stepdaughter, Joyce Hood; and her great-granddaughter, Kyann Mills.

A wake will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Braun Funeral Home in Columbia, Illinois.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. sharp at Braun Funeral Home. Burial services will follow at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Following the services, family and friends are invited to gather for food and fellowship at West Park Bowl in Columbia, Illinois.

Carol's love, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed and forever remembered.