June 15, 2019
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our friend, our colleague, our mentor, Carol Norfleet. She passed away peacefully in the early morning of Saturday, June 15, in the presence of her son Gabe and held in the immeasurable love of her community.
How do you even begin to summarize the void left by a woman often described as a “force”? Being labeled as one of the core influencers to shape Nashville into the premier meeting and event destination it is today, Carol was nothing short of an icon for the industry. While her multiple awards support this title, it was the countless hours of time she spent mentoring the next generation of industry professionals that will be her work legacy. Always positive and encouraging her dynamic energy was as infectious as her trademark laughter.
And while her 'event children' are in the thousands, she would be the first to tell you, her greatest accomplishment in life is her son Gabe. He moves into adulthood with a profound awareness of her love and commitment to him.
And while her 'event children' are in the thousands, she would be the first to tell you, her greatest accomplishment in life is her son Gabe. He moves into adulthood with a profound awareness of her love and commitment to him.
Carol’s life and love, passion and impact will be celebrated in bright colors and in the company of friends in the coming days.
Today we mourn, and as she would want, hold each other tightly and carry on with her same spirit, generosity, and tenacity for life.
Godspeed Carol. Rest. In Peace.
Today we mourn, and as she would want, hold each other tightly and carry on with her same spirit, generosity, and tenacity for life.
Godspeed Carol. Rest. In Peace.
Join the 13 donors who have made a tribute gift in honor of Carol
Your tribute gift is a donation to CaringBridge that’s made in dedication to Carol. For $25, you can power a page for two weeks, helping them stay connected to family and friends.
Will you join the 13 other donors who have kept this page online for Carol and for you?
Cathy Holland — 6/17/19
Carol was a true dynamic force that touched everyone that she came in contact with on both a professional and personal level. She loved Nashville and was one of our city’s greatest ambassadors. I am deeply sadden by her passing but joyous that I had the opportunity to work with her on numerous projects and call her a friend.
Patty Needham — 6/17/19
I’m so sorry for your loss. I know your hearts are hurting. I am praying for your family.
Michael Costa — 6/15/19
I am truly honored to have known and worked with Carol. Words cannot express how she will be missed by those of us, whose lives she has touched.
Rebecca Dierdorff — 6/17/19
Very well said my friend - she was amazing
Philip Nathanson — 6/15/19
Carol’s ’event children’ lost a wonderful friend and inspiration this morning. Carol left a lasting impact on me late in my career proving that you’re never too old, too accomplished or too successful to learn from others. Learn what you can and share what you know. Rest In Peace Carol.
T Clark Miller — 6/15/19
What Carol might get a kick out of most, is that RIGHT NOW I have NO words. I'm a guy with a lot of words and love to talk, Carol and I had that in common, I think. I will always cherish many things about her, but will remember her laughing at my quips and her hair the most!
Bonnie Boyd — 6/15/19
Carol, thank you for everything you gave us and everything you are ! Your legacy will live on in our hearts as we follow your extraordinary example. We miss you and we know that
Heaven is brighter because you are there!
Bonnie Boyd and BBC Destination Management
Heaven is brighter because you are there!
Bonnie Boyd and BBC Destination Management
Michael Lyons — 6/15/19
Such sad news. We can all learn from Carol’s legacy - she was a shining example of the impact a giving, thoughtful, loving, kind, generous, unselfish, optimistic human being can have on so many people. She was so loved by so many and will be greatly missed. Ironically I am writing this from Toronto at MPI WEC where so many who are attending were touched by Carol and her passion for the Meetings Industry. She helped countless people get their CMPs and the news of her passing and her absence here will be profoundly felt by those of us who knew her. RIP dear Carol.❤️
Mindy Powell-Hardy — 6/15/19
You will be dearly missed, friend💕
Laurie Salow — 6/15/19
Thank you for all you have done to keep us informed, Tracy. We are so sad for Carol, Gabe, and all who loved and experienced the life force that was Carol. She was one of a kind and will be greatly missed.
Lisa Schneider — 6/15/19
I feel extremely fortunate to have had the time I did with Carol. She was a beautiful and supportive force in our industry. I will not have the opportunity so many have had to be guided and taught by her directly but look forward to the stories and teaching moments she left within others! Prayers of strength, guidance and healing for her family.