Carol Britton Obituary

CAROL P. BRITTON a longtime educator, passed away on January 21, 2024. She was born in Locust Valley, Long Island, New York, to Edward R. and Grace L. Britton of New York and Hawaii. Fostering her love of nature from a young age, she was encouraged by her parents to respect her environment, its flora and fauna, as well as bearing a sense of stewardship of the land and its resources. A favorite memory, she recalled walking the paths of Locust Valley with her friend and their 3 dogs. They carried notebooks identifying flowers and plants, and were able to avoid poison ivy as well as skunks. As an adult, she was an avid supporter of wildlife rescue, environmental conservation, and children's causes. Carol earned her B.S. degree in Education from SUNY at Cortland, New York. She taught at Elwood for 8 years, was granted a sabbatical to seek further education in her field of work, and received her M. Ed. in Educational Administration from University of Hawaii. Fulfilling the educational requirements of her sabbatical, she returned to New York to pursue her goals. But Hawaii, with its unique blend of cultures, made her feel a sense of belonging. The diversity of the children's backgrounds was just the challenge she needed. Her goal then, was to return to Oahu and experience her classroom interaction with the children of Hawaii. She spent 20 years teaching 6th grade in Laie and 2 years in Palisades. She said, "Nothing could have removed me from 6th grade, as I enjoyed it so much." Carol was an amazing teacher, friend, and mentor. A proficient communicator, she demonstrated her skills in psychology, curriculum, practicum, mediation, and common sense. She saw her students as individuals, and fostered their growth into becoming positive and contributing members of our society. In her self-obituary, Carol wrote: "Meeting the Sasaki family when I came to Hawaii has meant so much to me. Always wishing for a sister, I managed to receive several of them. Mom Sasaki referred to me as her sixth daughter. Truly an honor from such kind and gracious woman. Taking part in the Japanese traditions with my hanai family on the Big Island filled my life with great joy. At their New Year mochi pounding in Kalaoa on the Hamakua Coast, one could easily pick out my odd shaped mochi from the others, who had perfected their shaping with a great deal of practice over the years. I shared much fun and laughter with June and her family." "My life has had its up and downs, but I've managed to navigate its many challenges, with the support of all my dear friends, hanai family, and kind strangers I've met along the way. Mahalo and Aloha." Carol is survived by her brother, William (Mardie) Britton of Florida; niece Christine Britton of New York; nephew Kurt (Audra) Britton of Florida; nephew John Britton of New York; and grandnieces and grandnephews. Service and an Ocean Memorial have been held. If you wish, donations may be made in Carol's memory to: PBS Hawaii, P.O. Box 29606, Honolulu, HI 96820-2006 or online at PBS.org. Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC