Carly Parauda’s life was a mosaic of vibrant passions and tender moments, each piece reflecting her boundless curiosity and compassionate spirit. Her journey began amidst the rolling hills of Virginia, where she graduated in 2023 from Virginia Tech, a proud graduate with degrees in Criminology and Sociology.
She had a mind that sought to unravel the complexities of human behavior, yet her heart beat for kindness and understanding. In her classroom, she was a seeker of truth, blending logical inquiry with genuine care for others, always aiming to make a difference in the lives she touched.
After graduation, Carly’s path took her into the world of small acts of kindness—wiping noses at KinderCare, where she read picture books with gentle patience, filling children’s days with wonder. She moved seamlessly from caring for young minds to nurturing her own creative spirit in the bustling cafes of New York City. At Avellino’s, she was a familiar warm smile, a quick refilled glass, a comforting presence amid the chaos. Then her love for beauty and history led her to Dienst + Dotter, where she unearthed antique treasures that whispered stories of enduring elegance. Each object she cataloged became a lesson in timelessness, a testament to the enduring power of craft and patience.
In the midst of her New York days, Carly’s artistic soul found expression at Damselfly, where she crafted floral arrangements that seemed to breathe life into every corner. Her bouquets weren’t just flowers—they were silent poetry, capturing fleeting beauty and eternal grace. Strangers left her work with smiles, their hearts touched by her artistry, her gentle touch. Yet, even amid these joyful moments, Carly remained a connector—texting parents she could babysit for that evening, her calendar a patchwork of small kindnesses and shared laughter.
But her journey was not just about fleeting moments of joy; it was about dreams yet to be realized. Her eyes sparkled with ideas of how fashion could be a force for good, a way to honor the planet rather than exploit it. She envisioned a future where clothing was crafted with care, respecting both the environment and the artisans behind each stitch. Her pursuit of a Master’s in Sustainable Fashion at the University of Westminster in London was a testament to her commitment—a new chapter filled with hope and purpose. She arrived in London full of enthusiasm, eager to learn, to connect, to change the world one eco-conscious thread at a time.
Her days in London were filled with lively conversations about culture, craft, and the future of fashion. She was a tornado of ideas, speaking nonstop about how the industry could shift toward sustainability. Her friends saw in her a spark—a relentless desire to make beauty and responsibility coexist. She was just beginning to lay the groundwork for a meaningful impact, her mind teeming with plans and her heart open to collaboration.
Then, suddenly, on November 13, 2025, everything changed. Carly stopped breathing, her vibrant spirit quieted before her dreams could fully take root. Her passing was a shock—a silent pause in the symphony of lives she touched. Her family, friends, classmates, and all who knew her were left with a profound sense of loss, their hearts heavy with the weight of unspoken words and unrealized dreams.
Her unfinished class notes sit on her desk, a half-tied ribbon lies abandoned on the counter, and her quiet reason remains an untold story. Yet, her essence endures—resonating in the kindness she offered, the beauty she created, and the dreams she dared to dream. Carly’s life was a testament to the power of compassion, creativity, and hope. Though her journey was cut short, her impact continues to ripple outward, inspiring others to pursue their passions with love and purpose.
Warmest condolences to those holding her memory close—may her light continue to shine in the stories we share, the flowers we cherish, and the change we strive to make in her honor. Carly Parauda’s spirit lives on, a gentle reminder that even in the briefest moments, one life can leave an indelible mark on the world.
