ROMKEY, Carol A. (Antanelis)- Of Billerica, age 79, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on June 9, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. A devoted and loving wife, Carol shared 59 beautiful years of marriage with Edward A. Romkey, retired Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
Born in South Boston, Carol was the youngest daughter of Dr. Joseph and Anna Antanelis, and was predeceased by her beloved sisters, Joanne (Antanelis) Sweeney and Paula (Antanelis) Casey.
Carol and Ed made their home in Billerica in 1973, following six years in Virginia during Ed's service with the U.S. Air Force. She was a devoted and deeply loving mother to Linda (Romkey) Crowley of Billerica; Deborah (Romkey) Schena and her husband Greg of Chelmsford; Daryl Romkey and his wife Stephanie (Welik) of Grafton; and Teresa Romkey of Chelmsford. A cherished "Nana" to Ashley and Shawna Crowley; Joseph, Jillian, and Samantha Schena; and Gemmalyn and Eleanora Romkey. A loving cousin to Marie Susen and her husband Jack of Dennis, MA, and a treasured "Auntie Carol" to many beloved nieces and nephews.
Carol lived a life graced by kindness, generosity, and an abiding love for those around her. She was a joyful and unwavering presence at her children's and grandchildren's sporting events, musicals, and performances — their greatest champion in every endeavor. As a Bluebird and Campfire Girl leader, a devoted member of the Billerica Friends of Music, and Director and Board Member of the Billerica Girls Softball Association, Carol gave generously of her time and heart to the young people of Billerica. To those in the Friends of Music, she was affectionately known for years simply as the "sub lady." In later years, she found great joy in the fellowship of St. Theresa's Women's Club and the Billerica Garden Club. She had a true gift with flowers, and her lovingly crafted centerpieces graced celebrations of every kind. For many years, she also gave with quiet grace through her dedicated service to the annual St. Theresa's Giving Tree program.
At the heart of everything Carol did was a deep and abiding faith. It was the quiet foundation of her kindness, her generosity, and her lifelong service to her church and community. She lived her beliefs not in words alone, but in every act of love and giving.
Carol touched every life she entered with warmth, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Family and friends are invited to gather in Carol's honor at Sweeney Memorial Funeral Home, 66 Concord Road, Billerica, MA. Visiting hours: 4–7 PM on Friday, June 12th. Funeral Mass at St. Matthew the Evangelist Parish – St. Theresa Church, 466 Boston Road, Billerica, MA, on Saturday, June 13th at 11:00 AM. Memorial contributions may be made in Carol’s name to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, www.ovarian.org
Previous Events
Visitation
12
Jun
66 Concord Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Funeral Mass
13
Jun
466 Boston Rd.
Billerica, MA 01821
Burial
13
Jun
130 Andover Rd.
Billerica, MA 01821
