Carla J. Duda

Carla Jean Duda, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on March 6, 2026. Carla was born on March 31, 1961, in Columbus, Ohio.

Carla made her home on a farm in St. Louisville, Ohio, where she lived with her husband, Anthony. From a very young age, Carla’s love for animals was undeniable. Caring for animals wasn’t just a hobby for her—it was truly her way of life.

As fate would have it, Carla met the love of her life in an unexpected way. A friend had answered a dating site (which Carla did not know about) to meet a guy who just happened to be a farmer. Carla was hesitant to go, but she went anyway and from that moment on, she and Anthony were inseparable. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and happiness from the joys of farm life. They would have celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this coming May.

On their farm, Carla and Anthony cared for many animals over the years, including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, ducks, birds, chickens, cats and Carla cherished her beloved dogs above all. Their home is currently protected by a goose that proudly guards their property. Their farm was full of fun, life and laughter.

Carla was also a dedicated hairdresser who worked in the industry for more than 40 years. She truly cherished her clients, and over the years many of them became close friends. For Carla, it was never just about cutting hair—it was about the conversations, the laughter, and sharing life’s stories together.

Carla had a wonderful sense of humor and a playful, joking personality that could make anyone laugh until they cried. You never quite knew what might come out of her mouth next, but it always brought smiles and laughter to those around her. Her quick wit and joyful spirit were just a few of the many things people loved about her.

Carla and Anthony also shared a love for traveling to the Tennessee Smoky Mountains, which they visited every year and lovingly called their home away from home. They enjoyed staying high in the mountains, having picnics in the national parks beside peaceful streams, and keeping an eye out for bears. Carla had a special knack for spotting them, so much so that family affectionately called her the “bear magnet.” Many of these trips were shared with family members, creating cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Carla was preceded in death by her parents, Delmer and Barbara Lavely; her sister, Christy Johnson; and her brothers-in-law, James Terry, Rob Johnson, and Bob Archer.

She is survived by her loving husband, Anthony Duda; her siblings Cindy Terry, Cheryl Archer, Craig Lavely, Connie (Steve) Drabick, and Chad (Rick Garrison) Lavely; her nephews Matthew (Gail) Terry, Nathan Terry, and Robby (Katie) Johnson; her nieces Alicia Archer and Ashley Archer; and her great-nephew Brayden Johnson.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 19th at Shaw-Davis Funeral Home, 4341 N. High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214. Family and friends can call at 11:00 a.m. with the service to follow at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Licking County Humane Society or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Carla will be remembered for her kind heart, her contagious laughter, her deep love for animals, and the happiness she found in the simple joys of nature, family, and country living. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. RIP Lala!