Carol Jean Billone

Carol Jean Billone, 74, born on October 21, 1943 passed away October 31, 2017 from pancreatic cancer. She is survived by her spouse, Dr. Judith Pachciarz, beloved niece Carrie Ulrich (née Billone), nephew-in-law Kevin Ulrich, grandnephew Benjamin, and niece Stacey Billone. She was preceded in death by her parents of Italian heritage, Sam Billone and Marion Billone (née Fiore); and her brother, Samuel Billone.
Carol Billone was born in Chicago, Illinois and at age three moved to Los Angeles. She became deaf at age five from illness. She attended LAUSD schools including Hollywood high school. She graduated from Gallaudet University (previously Gallaudet College) with a B.S. degree and is a member of the class of 1966. Carol fought to be the first deaf teacher hired by the Los Angeles Unified School District in 1968 and taught at Marlton School for the deaf. She taught drama as well as physical science and produced a play in American Sign Language which led to the establishment of a Total Communication program. Carol was the California State Teacher of the Year in 1976 and a candidate for National Teacher of the Year. Carol was also honored as California Deaf Teacher of the Year by California State University, Northridge, in 1981 and inducted into the California State Teacher Hall of Fame. She retired in 2006 after 38 years.
Carol Billone formed a long-term relationship with Dr. Judith Pachciarz in 1983. They became domestic partners and married August 29, 2008. In 1985 Carol became the first woman director of the World Games for the Deaf with over 2,400 world-wide athletes situated over ten venues in Los Angeles County. Subsequently Mayor Bradley appointed Carol President of the Los Angeles Human Relations Commission. She earned a M.A.degree in educational administration at California State University, Northridge in 1987.
Carol Billone had a unique ability to relate to people in all walks of life in both the deaf and hearing communities. Her warm and enormous heart drew people to her and she had innumerable friends, colleagues, students, and others who miss her dearly.
Services at Forest Lawn are private. Memorial celebrations of life will be at Marlton school and in the San Fernando Valley and will be announced.