Carol was born in Chicago on July 30, 1935, to her loving parents, Emil and Bessie Vysa. She died peacefully on November 24, 2025, adorned with her red feather boa and listening to the sweet sounds of the Teddy Lee Orchestra, surrounded by loved ones. A proud graduate of Farragut High School in Chicago, Carol later made Clarendon Hills her home for more than 30 years, where she served the community as President of the Village Women’s Club. Carol was the devoted wife of the late Robert Crosson, the dear sister of the late June Carlson, and a beloved aunt to her nieces Sandra and Candee and her nephew Todd.

Carol’s first passion in life began at just eight years old: gymnastics. She trained and competed on multiple apparatuses and in synchronized formations as a dedicated member of the American Sokol Organization. Her dream was to create a foundation supporting Sokol’s extraordinary contributions to young people around the world. As she often said, “I wish that every child could have a chance to participate in Sokol’s disciplined training program, which gives them an intense feeling of belonging.”

In 2023, Carol made that dream a reality by establishing the Sister Carol Crosson Endowment Foundation, providing travel support to American Sokol youth performing internationally. In 2024, four American Sokol youth benefited from her generosity as they performed field calisthenics in Prague, Czech Republic.

After her international competitions—which included earning a gold medal with a winning team and performing at Soldier Field—Carol continued to serve Sokol as Vice President of West Suburban Sokol and became a lifetime member. On June 26 of this year, she was honored at the Chicago Sokol Banquet with “The Distinguished Service Award” from American Sokol Chicagoland.

Carol’s second great passion was Ballroom Dancing. She was never more radiant than when she stepped onto the dance floor. A 30-year member of the Jitterbug Club of Chicago and a joyful presence at Willowbrook and Glendora Ballrooms, Carol was affectionately known as “The Dancing Queen.” Her ballroom friends became her closest companions, her cherished support system, and brought immeasurable joy to her life. She loved to remind others: “Never stop dancing!”

Carol will be honored on Saturday, December 6, 2025, when family and friends gather at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S Madison St, Willowbrook to celebrate her remarkable life. From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., loved ones will have the chance to visit, share memories, and be together. Her funeral service starts at 1:00 p.m. to reflect on her legacy, her joy, and the countless lives she touched. Interment will be private.

Special thanks go to the AccentCare Hospice and Harvest In-Home Care teams, whose compassion and devoted presence brought Carol such peace, comfort, and companionship during her final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carol Crosson Endowment Foundation c/o Arbor Legacy Law, LLC, 24402 Lockport Street, Suite 214, Plainfield, IL 60544, continuing her legacy of supporting youth and celebrating the community she cherished.