Carol Ann Lance

Carol Ann Lance, born in Greenwood, MS on August 2, 1946, passed away peacefully at her home in Lillian, Alabama on July 25, 2026, at the age of 79.

Carol grew up in Carrollton, MS and had wonderful parents, Deb and Sue Vance. Her family were very highly regarded in the small community of Carrollton. Carol graduated from the University of Mississippi and went on to teach high school English for a few years. She then moved into social work and ended up residing in Teutopolis and Effingham, Illinois. For many years, she worked as a compassionate social worker for the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in Effingham, Illinois. Through her tireless advocacy, fierce dedication, and gentle spirit, she protected, guided, and changed the lives of countless vulnerable children and families.

Carol dedicated her life to the service of others, leaving an indelible mark on the children and families she served. Her commitment to service extended deeply into her civic life through her dedicated membership with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. A proud and highly active member of the Effingham Elks Lodge 1016, Carol was honored as the Officer of the Year for the 2020–2021 fraternal year. When pandemic restrictions challenged civic organizations everywhere, Carol stepped up significantly, working tirelessly to keep lodge operations stable and ensure vital community outreach and fundraising programs continued to support area children and families in need. 

Outside of her meaningful career and community service, Carol was known for her vibrant spirit and unwavering loyalty to her favorite sports teams. Fall weekends were spent cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels and her beloved New Orleans Saints (sometimes not so gracefully), passions she shared enthusiastically with everyone around her. 

Preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Vicky, and her son Duke, Carol leaves behind a beautiful blueprint of love and connection. 

Her legacy of profound empathy and community leadership lives on through her surviving children, Shannon (Jeremy) Nicholson, Michelle (Steve) McCann, and Will (Rusty) Lance. She was the incredibly proud grandmother of Addison, Aidan, Owen, Amanda-Quinn, Garrett, Kay Ann, Evan, Josh, Clayton, and Ozzy. Her memory will be forever cherished by a sprawling network of extended family, friends, and the many communities she united through a lifetime of bringing people together across Mississippi, Illinois, and Alabama. 

Local arrangements are being made at this time. 

In lieu of flowers or donations the family would ask that loved ones say a prayer for the Ole Miss Rebels & New Orleans Saints on Saturdays and Sundays during the upcoming football season. Hotty Toddy!!