Carole Magdik Defilippi, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh.  Born in 1942 in West Leechburg, PA, she was the fourth child of Celecia and Charles Magdik. Carole grew up with her siblings—Milan, Emil, Marjorie, and Annie—in Leechburg, where countless treasured memories were made.

From a young age, Carole was a bright and joyful presence.  She excelled in Sokol gymnastics and was a popular majorette during her high school years. After graduating from Leechburg H.S. in 1960, she moved to Pittsburgh, employed as a secretary at H.J. Heinz. She worked there until 1969, when she fell in love and married her high school classmate, Thomas Defilippi. Together they built a loving home in West Leechburg where they lived for 50 years.  Their strong Catholic faith was the foundation of their lives and parenting, guiding their values and shaping a home where faith, service, and community were deeply cherished.

Carole was a proud and loving mother to Lori, Gregg, and Beth, who always knew her as an extraordinary and devoted mother. She poured her heart into their lives—serving as a Girl Scout leader, Little League fundraiser, and ever-present “softball mom.” A gifted seamstress, she lovingly crafted Halloween costumes and created beautifully decorated birthday and wedding cakes that became treasured family memories.

In 1989, Carole returned to the workforce, joining Allegheny Ludlum, the steel company where her father had spent his career. She worked with dedication as a Metallurgical Specifications Clerk until her retirement in 2009. Retirement brought her the greatest gift of all: time with her four adored grandchildren. Sleepovers at Grammy LaLa’s were filled with fun and always ended with her signature waffle or pancake breakfasts. She was a constant presence in their lives, never missing a dance recital, sporting event, or school function.

For nearly 60 years, Carole and Tom planned all the reunions for the Leechburg Class of 1960, helping to maintain lifelong friendships and a strong sense of community. She explored the world with Tom by her side—cruising the Danube, Alaska, New England, California, Hawaii and Mexico, and visiting Italy, London, and Paris. Yet she found just as much joy in a simple Sunday drive to see a waterfall or covered bridge, an afternoon walk, or a picnic in the park. 

A woman of many talents, Carole found joy in sewing, baking, and cooking—her stuffed cabbages and pierogies were beloved Slovak family favorites. She generously shared her culinary talents with Christ the King Parish, where she organized countless pierogi, nut roll, and Easter bread sales that brought her Catholic community together.  She also loved reading on her front porch, playing Words with Friends, and listening to the timeless tunes of Elvis and Barry Manilow.

In 2019 Carole and Tom joyously celebrated their 50th anniversary with a surprise party at the Marconi Club in Leechburg given by their children.  In 2021 they moved to the Heritage Crossing 55+ neighborhood in Sarver, a wonderful adventure for them that brought new friendships and activities.

A 30-year breast cancer survivor, Carole faced her lymphoma diagnosis in 2024 with courage. She went out bravely and on her own terms, now resting peacefully in the arms of her Savior.  She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. 

Carole is survived by her sisters, Marj (Ron) Andreo of Cypress, TX, and Annie (Paul) Gasowski of Lee, NH; her children, Lori Defilippi (Joseph Edelstein) of Pittsburgh; Gregg Defilippi (Geri Cooper Defilippi) of Oakmont; and Beth Defilippi Davis (Brian Davis) of Sarver; her grandchildren Meredith Tirdel of Pittsburgh; Joshua Tirdel of Pittsburgh; Brandon Davis of Sarver; and Brody Davis of Sarver.   She is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Defilippi, parents, Charles and Cecelia Magdik, and brothers, Milan and Emil Magdik. 

Friends will be welcomed on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Clawson Funeral & Cremation Center, 170 Main St., Leechburg, 724-842-1051.  Parting Prayers of Transfer will begin at 9 a.m. at the funeral home on Monday, August 25, followed by Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 a.m., at St. Mary, Mother of God Church, 608 High St., Freeport, with the Rev. Richard J. Kosisko as celebrant.

Family suggests memorial donations to St. Mary, Mother of God Church; or to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.