Carolyn Dolle Gates

Carolyn “Lyn” Dolle Gates, 74, formerly of Ledyard, passed away on Monday, November 7 in Mystic, CT. She was born June 23, 1948, to Caroline and William Dolle of Deep River. A teacher for almost 40 years, she taught middle school, high school, adult ed, college, and elementary school, finishing out her career with Solomon Schechter Academy.

Lyn was a wonderful lady who loved life and her family. In her free time, she enjoyed gardening, reading and go-kart racing; she loved traveling to New Hampshire, and later to Pennsylvania’s Amish Country among other places.

In 1975 she married Harry Gates, and together they built their home in Ledyard where they lived until 2021.

Carolyn leaves behind her husband Harry, children Jessica (Anthony) Frankopoulos of Niantic, Matthew Gates of Ledyard, Bethany Parks of Middletown, and Debbie (David) Casey of Indianapolis, as well as three grandsons, Daniel O’Neil, Spencer Gates, and Patrick Stout; two granddaughters Bailey Parks and Kennedy Parks; two brothers, Carl (Elin) Dolle and Paul Dolle, both of Deep River, in addition to cousins and other extended family.

Lyn was described as a loyal and caring friend by many who remember her fondly for all that she did for them and how she was always there when needed. An ice cream connoisseur, you could always recognize her by her blue eyes, excellent sense of humor, and quick wit.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Joyce Werden for all of her care and assistance; and their gratitude to Beacon Hospice.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at Deep River Congregational Church on Saturday November 19 at 11:00 a.m.

The family asks for any donations to go to the Alzheimer’s Association in Lyn’s name.