Carol Hayden Warren of Green Valley, AZ, peacefully passed away at home on March 15, 2024. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert A. Warren; parents Harry and Alice Groetzinger) Hayden; and her brother, John Dewey Hayden.
Born in Cranston, Rhode Island, Carol was a 1956 graduate of Cranston High School. She went on to graduate from William Smith College in 1960, majoring in American Studies. Carol married Bob in December 1977 in New York and moved to New Mexico in 1991, where she developed a passion for Native American art.
Carol dedicated 26 years of her life to volunteering at the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture in Santa Fe. She began her service in the gift shop, eventually spending 17 years in collection development. Her passion for indigenous art and culture became a legacy, culminating in the establishment of the Carol Warren Collection. This personal collection of pottery, paintings, sculptures, and jewelry stands as a testament to Carol's lifelong commitment to preserving and celebrating Native American heritage.
In addition to her contributions to the arts, Carol also left an indelible mark on education. She funded scholarships at La Posada in Green Valley, Girls, Inc., and Heifer International, specifically for girls, ensuring that her legacy of empowerment and support for education would continue to inspire future generations. Reflecting her love for her alma mater, Carol also established the C Hayden Warren Scholarship at William Smith College.
Carol was known for her deep love of animals, especially cats, which she cherished throughout her life. She was also a talented photographer, capturing the beauty of the world through her lens. Her passion for exploration led her to travel the world, immersing herself in diverse cultures and experiences. In 2017, Carol retired to La Posada in Green Valley, where she continued to support local art, classical music, and scholarships.
Remembered for her boundless generosity, adventurous spirit, and love for life, Carol's legacy will endure, reflected in her ability to see the beauty in art and the world around her, inspiring others to do the same.
Memorial donations can be made in Carol's name to the Animal League of Green Valley or Heifer International - Send a Girl to School. The addresses are: Animal League of Green Valley at 1600 W Duvall Mine Road, Green Valley, AZ 85614 or Heifer International - Send a Girl to School, 1 World Ave, Little Rock, AR 72202.
