Carole (Murphy) Faricy

Mary Carole “Carole” Faricy (née Murphy), of St. Paul, MN, passed away peacefully on June 5 at Regions Hospital, just three days shy of her 96th birthday.

Funny, smart, and fiercely determined, Carole spent her life challenging the status quo and lifting up her community. Known for her candid opinions and fearless fundraising, she was never afraid to ask for support—or to tell guests when the party was over.

Carole brought elegance and tenacity to every cause she championed. She joined DFL politics during George Latimer’s campaign for Mayor of St. Paul, adding “a touch of class” with hand-signed thank-you notes. Over 50 years, she helped propel movements like the Anita Hill professorship, the Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women, and the “I Forgot Fund,” which supports seniors aging in place. She led fundraising for numerous public figures, including Congressman Martin Sabo, the Rudy Perpich / Marlene Johnson ticket, and Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton, often hosting gatherings at the home she shared with her husband, architect Richard “Dick” Faricy.

Before her political activism, Carole led a vibrant life—as a Western Airlines ticket agent, Saint Paul Hotel key sorter, KTCA-TV director, and Grand Avenue gallery owner. She also served on boards such as chairing the Metropolitan Transit Commission, St. Paul Charter Commission, St. Paul Planning Commission and Clare Housing.

Carole was preceded in death by her husband and her six siblings: Gen, Bud, Dorrie, Allie, Dick & Patty. She is survived by daughters Althea Faricy (Chris Engstrom), Bridget Faricy (Phil Mykland), granddaughter Lydia McGinnis Engstrom, and many devoted nieces and nephews and granddog Ivan.

A private celebration of Carole’s life will be held later this summer.  Memorials may be made to NE Seniors for Better Living and PFLAG River Falls, WI.