Carla A. Kimmel , age 98, widow of David J. Kimmel, passed away on July 10, 2025.  The daughter of the late Charles and Florence Baratelli, Carla was born on July 9, 1927 in Milford, CT. Her family eventually moved to Boston where she was head cheerleader during her high school years at Cambridge Prep, as well as queen of her graduating class. After graduation she went to art school in Boston before attending Dean Junior College in Franklin, MA.

Over the years Carla worked as a hair stylist, realtor and model.  She later worked in Customer Service at Countryside Mall in Clearwater, where she finally retired at 81 years of age.

She also volunteered for the Philadelphia Phillies during Spring training, the SPCA, the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club, and the Francis Wilson Playhouse in Clearwater.

Carla was a fun-loving, friendly, youthful and stunning woman who deeply loved her family as well as her long-departed precious poodle Cheri.  Animals and children were always drawn to her.  She had a zest for life that was immeasurable, and loved to entertain and play games of all sorts.  She was still calling out the answers to Wheel of Fortune puzzles on TV long before the contestants on the show.

She greatly enjoyed golf, dancing and musical theatre and participated in both the Women's Golf League and the Jesters Club at On Top of the World in Clearwater.  She was also a lover of wine and make-up.  Compliments from friends and strangers always made her day, and she was very appropriately nicknamed  "Ms. Hollywood" at a local adult day care center she attended.

Carla is survived by her devoted family, her children Cheryl Ritchie and Ronald Ritchie, her grandsons Daniel Ritchie and Dr. Peter Ritchie, two great granddaughters Cate and Rowan, and a very special cousin Lynn Persson.

Carla was dearly loved and will forever be missed. A memorial will be held for her on Wednesday, August 13 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Holloway Funeral Home, 112 S. Bayview Blvd., Oldsmar, FL 34677.