Carla J. Theis

Carla J. Theis, a gentle soul whose life was a testament to deep love and enduring devotion, passed away on May 23, 2026. Born on September 21, 1965, Carla lived a rich and full life, lovingly woven from the threads of family, music, and community.

A proud graduate of St. Bernard Elmwood Place in 1983, Carla embraced her role as a homemaker. She found joy in the simple pleasures—cherishing the melodies that graced her days, the comforting glow of television, and the vibrant camaraderie of Friday nights spent at the VFW. These moments, seemingly small to some, were the heartbeat of Carla’s world, reflecting a spirit that treasured connection and belonging.

 She is deeply mourned by her significant other of 18 years, Dave Shivley, whose steadfast partnership was a beacon in her life. Her daughters—Margaret (Tommy) Peddicord, Emily (Charles) York, and Sarah Theis. She also leaves behind 5 grandchildren.

Her sisters—Karen Curry (Gary Moll), Lynette (Charles) Harris, Rose (Earl) Bacak, Kimberly Dallas—and her brother Ralph Fry Jr. remain pillars of support and remembrance, along with an aunt, an uncle, and a multitude of nieces and nephews who all felt the light of Carla’s kindness.

Carla’s journey was preceded in death by her father, Erwin A. Theis, her mother, Betty Ann Fry, and another father Ralph F. Fry. Her beloved son, Charles A. Theis, along with her brothers Charles A. Theis and James T. Fry, also passed before her.

The community will gather to pay their respects to Carla at Hodapp Funeral Homes - Carthage, located at 7401 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45216. Visitation will be held on May 29, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Her final resting place will be at Saint Mary Cemetery and Mausoleum at 701 E Ross Ave in Cincinnati, where the burial will take place on May 30, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Carla J. Theis’s life was a melody that touched every heart she met, composed of unyielding love, gentle strength, and a joyous embrace of life’s simple treasures. She leaves behind a legacy not only defined by the family she adored but by the spirit she shared so freely—one that will forever resonate in the lives of those who were fortunate to know her.