Carol Tortorice, 87, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at Lockport Rehab and Health Care Center. Born in Binghamton, NY, she was the daughter of the late William and Susan (Billings) Moore.

As a young girl, Carol moved with her family to Youngstown before settling permanently in Niagara Falls, where she grew up and graduated from Niagara Falls High School.

Carol began working with Bell Telephone at a young age proudly becoming one of the first female operators. In addition, she also worked as a waitress at Denny’s Restaurant, where she and her coworkers earned the affectionate nickname “The Diamond Girls.”

Carol was devoted to her faith and was a longtime member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Niagara Falls, serving faithfully on the Altar Guild. She loved traveling with her family, especially to the Adirondacks and Virginia Beach. She was a talented crocheter and sewer, as well as an avid reader. A gifted writer, she penned poetry that brought laughter and joy to everyone fortunate enough to hear it.

Carol was known for having “nine lives,” defeating cancer in her 50s and facing spinal stenosis and countless health challenges with a resilience that never wavered. She had a remarkable ability to make those who she loved feel valued, special, and seen. Loyal, humble, and endlessly kind, she did for others without ever seeking recognition.

Known for her natural ability to make others laugh, Carol’s quick wit was legendary. She delivered her funny, off‑color comments on all occasions. A strong Republican and unapologetic conservative, she told it exactly like it was—no sugarcoating, no hesitation, and certainly no apologies. She was happiest with a Red Dog in hand, floating in her pool like a queen surveying her kingdom, offering commentary that was equal parts hilarious and brutally honest. Her humor was unforgettable, her candor unmatched, and her ability to turn everyday moments into comedy was one of her greatest gifts.

Aside from her unmistakable humor, Carol was happiest when surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she cherished more than anything in the world.

Carol is survived by her four children, Michael (Marlene) Carlisto, Thomas (late Barbara) Carlisto, Lisa (Tony) D’Amuro and Anthony Tortorice; her grandchildren, Angela Carlisto, Michael Carlisto, Tabitha Carlisto, Thomas Carlisto, Wesley Carlisto, Amanda Carlisto, Summer Carlisto, Lexus Carlisto, Victoria Carlisto, Chloe Carlisto, Nicholas (Alexandria) D’Amuro, Caroline (fiancé Eddy) D’Amuro, Alexandria Tortorice, Samantha Tortorice and Anthony Tortorice; her great-grandchildren, Ella D’Amuro and Jack D’Amuro and several other beloved great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Carol was sadly predeceased by her son, Danny (Jackie) Carlisto; her first husband, Charles Carlisto and second husband, Gene Tortorice; three siblings, William (late Irene) Moore, Rev. Frank Moore and Patricia (late William) Pierangelino.

The family wishes to thank Carol’s dear aide, Wendy, for the compassion, love and care she brought to Carol throughout her last two years in the nursing home.

Visitation will be on Sunday, August 9 from 1 - 1:30 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will follow at 1:30 PM. Memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice at niagarahospice.org.

Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.