Carol Elaine Torsney, 75, of Ventura, CA passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on March 18, 2018. Carol, or “Gma” as her granddaughters lovingly called her, was born in Oakland, CA to Grace and James Hastings on Nov 7, 1942. She graduated from Rancho High School in Las Vegas, NV in 1960. Carol was married to David Joel Houts from 1961 to 1973, and was blessed with two daughters, Dennyse and Debbie. She was subsequently married to Walter Torsney from 1976 to 1992.
Professionally, Carol’s banking career began humbly with her handling students’ lunch money for the local school district. By the time she retired, she had held positions of increasing responsibility ranging from Branch Manager to Vice President, Loan Department. One of the highlights of her career included working with her colleagues to open a new community bank in Downey, CA. After retiring in 2009, Carol moved to Ventura, where she continued her dedication to service and volunteerism through her work with the CMH (DEFINE CMH) Auxiliary, as well as, board membership in her community association, Poinsettia Gardens.
Carol’s children and grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life. The legacy of Carol’s kind spirit, passion for culinary adventures, and the fun she found spending time with family is what everyone will fondly remember about Carol.
Carol is survived by her daughters Dennyse Fox (married to Edward Fox) of Ventura and Debbie Holler of Newbury Park; her granddaughters Sarah Rodriguez (married to Eric Rodriguez), Jacque McKinley, and Melissa Fox. In her memory the family plans to honor her with the planting a tree on the Ventura hillside where she can lovingly watch over her family. Donations in Carol’s name can be made to venturabotanicalgardens.com/donate.
A casual life celebration will be held on March 23 from 3-5pm at Poinsettia Gardens, 11370 Darling Rd., Ventura.