Shrewsbury – Carole A. (Gagner) Harpie, 80, of Shrewsbury, died peacefully Friday, Dec. 1, 2017 following a lengthy illness fought with courage, dignity, and determination.
Carole was born in Worcester, one of two children of Edmond J. and Isabelle (Bedard) Gagner. Raised in Auburn, Carole graduated from Auburn High School and began a career as a Jazz Vocalist with the stage name “Carole Renee” for more than 20 years, traveling throughout New England and the East Coast from Maine to Florida. Carole also worked alongside the “love of her life,” husband and partner Thomas Harpie at Harpie’s Auto Parts on Shrewsbury Street for many years. After retirement, Carole and Tom enjoyed spending time together in Florida and in Ogunquit, Maine.
Carole is survived by her husband of more than 45 years, Thomas A. Harpie Jr.; two stepsons, Thomas A. Harpie III of Jefferson and Michael P. Harpie of Provincetown; a brother, Paul Gagner and his wife, Nazra, of Charlton; nieces and nephew, Matthew Gagner and his two children, Tyler and Taylor of Charlton, Sareena Gagner Wassmer and her daughter Ariana Jazz of Holland, Shabana Gagner of Charlton, and Tammie Gagner Meade and her husband Larry of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Tammie and Carole were extremely close, as were many dear friends.
Carole was a gifted vocalist who loved performing. She also enjoyed the beaches of Maine in the summer and the beaches of Florida in the winter. Her life’s inspiration though was her husband, Tom. The greatest moments in her life were alongside him.
Funeral services and entombment will be held privately in Notre Dame Mausoleum. A memorial service is being planned for a future date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do a kind act for any person in need as a tribute to and in memory of Carole.
The family would like to acknowledge the incredible care and compassion provided by many physicians, nurses, and support staff who cared for Carole, and particularly her home health care aide and dear friend, Gladys Augustin.
The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
