Carol Orleck

Doris Carol Smith Orleck May 15, 1950 - March 5, 2026 Doris Carol Smith Orleck passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026. A woman of quiet strength, unwavering compassion, and deep wisdom, Carol gave freely of herself to all who sought her care, guidance, and counsel. Her life was defined by service, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to others. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Merlene Smith, and her younger sister, Wilma Smith. Carol is survived by her husband of over 54 years, Rick Orleck, whom she married on March 27, 1971. She also leaves behind her daughter and son-in-law, Monica and Chad Watkins; and her cherished grandchildren, Ian Watkins (fiancée Leah Brown) and Addie Watkins (Evan Toelle), who brought her immeasurable joy. She is further survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Deborah Smith Williams and Jerry Williams; her nephew Jeremy Williams and niece Amelia Williams Cronic and their families; along with many beloved cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. A lifelong learner and dedicated professional, Carol graduated from East Coweta High School in 1968. She earned her Registered Nursing degree from Piedmont School of Nursing in 1971, later receiving her Bachelor of Science in 1981 and her Master of Nursing Administration in 1983 from The University of Arizona in Tucson. Her nursing career spanned Kentucky, Arizona, Florida, and primarily Georgia, where she served patients at Coweta General and Newnan Hospital in Emergency, ICU, Operating Room, and Administration. She later provided compassionate care through home healthcare and shared her knowledge as a Professor of Nursing at LaGrange College. Her work in healthcare extended over two decades. In 1993, Carol earned her Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School in Atlanta and began a second remarkable career in law. She practiced for over 30 years, owning her own firm in Newnan and Sharpsburg, and served families throughout Coweta and surrounding counties. As the Coweta DFACS attorney, she was a dedicated advocate for children and families. Carol was a loving wife, mother, proud Grammy, sister, and friend. A longtime resident of Coweta County, she was an avid gardener and bird lover who found joy in nature, beauty, and meaningful moments shared with those she loved. She will be remembered for her strength, her generosity, her intelligence, and the quiet but powerful way she made a difference in the lives of so many. A Garden Gathering to Honor Her Life Saturday, May 16, 2026 Beginning at 5:30 PM Drop in anytime for food, fellowship, and remembrance A&O Bridges Community Center 105 Main Street Sharpsburg, Georgia In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Coweta CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) cowetacasa.org (Donate) cowetacasa@gmail.com 5½ W. Washington Street, Newnan, GA 30263 770-253-0046 Condolences may be expressed online at www.mckoon.com McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580