ORLANDO, Fla. — The holidays often bring a mix of joy, tradition, and togetherness — but for many, this season also carries a different kind of emotion.
Mornings in Carolyn Moor’s home are quiet and peaceful. Behind Carolyn’s warm smile is a story shaped by loss — the passing of her husband, Chad.
What You Need To Know
Local widow turns personal grief into a community support system through the Modern Widows Club.
New Hope for Kids helps children and families navigate loss during the holidays.
Mental health experts encourage grace and personalized traditions when coping with grief.
Story highlights how honoring loved ones can bring healing and connection during the holiday season.
“It was a car accident, caused by a hit and run. We never caught those who caused the accident. It was severe head trauma, so it was within 24 hours he passed away,” Carolyn said.
Searching for support and a sense of community, Carolyn realized the space she needed didn’t exist, so she created it. The Modern Widows Club.
“It started right here in my home, with two ladies. And it really just grew because there’s this universal rule that widows know widows” Carolyn said.
The club now gives women a place to share stories, laughter, and the small victories of healing — especially during the holidays. But as a mother, Carolyn knew her strength needed to serve her children as well.
“My first and foremost thought was I will figure myself out. First I need to figure out what type of support my children need,” she said.
That support came from New Hope for Kids, a local organization that helps children navigate loss.
“Holidays are hard for a lot of our families, whether it’s the first year or the tenth year,” said Tezmon Oehler-Williams, Director of Programming.
Their team works to create safe spaces for families to talk about their late loved ones. “I think people have seen grief as all or nothing, but really, it’s a yes and. There can be clouds but there can also be sun at the same time,” said Oehler-Williams.
Mental health experts agree.
“We don’t have to follow an expectation or standard for the holidays,” said Shantala Boss, a mental health counselor with more than 10 years of experience. She encourages families to give themselves grace and focus on what matters most.
“Spend the time with the people we love and care about. It doesn’t have to be a specific way, and I think it’s very important that we look outside that and we do what’s best for us,” Boss said.
Whether it’s leaving an empty seat at the table or singing a loved one’s favorite Christmas carol, honoring them in a way that feels right is what truly matters.
For Carolyn, that means welcoming joy back into her home — and helping others do the same. “Make them a part of everything that you do. They’re not gone. They’re only physically gone. But spiritually they are still here with you,” she said.