SOUTH HADLEY - Carolyn M. (Murack) Pillow, 68, died Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, at Holyoke Medical Center.

Born June 16, 1943, in Torrington, Conn., she was the daughter of the late Vincent and Mary (Piekos) Murack.

Carolyn did her undergraduate studies at Regis College, she received her master's degree at the University of Pennsylvania and her doctorate in education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Carolyn worked for many years as a social worker and an educator. She was an animal lover and was known for having never turned away a stray dog.

The wife of the late Landon B. Pillow, she is survived by her brother, Francis Murack and wife Karen of Torrington, Conn.; two nieces, Jennie Murack of Belmont and Jessica Murack of Farmington, Conn.; her beloved dog, Precious; and her many good and dear friends and neighbors.

Private services will be handled by her family at a later date. There are no calling hours.

In recognition of Carolyn's love of animals, contributions in her memory may be made to the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society, P. O. Box 6307, Springfield, MA 01101-6307. The Ryder Funeral Home of South Hadley is assisting with funeral arrangements.