Beloved Matriarch and Mother of Lara Spencer Passes Away at 85
The television world is mourning the loss of Carolyn Von Seelen, the cherished mother of Good Morning America anchor Lara Spencer. Mrs. Von Seelen passed away peacefully on February 13th, surrounded by her loving children, at the age of 85. Her death has sent ripples of sadness through the broadcasting community and beyond.
Lara Spencer took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news, delivering a poignant tribute to her mother. She described Carolyn as a woman whose smile possessed an incredible power, capable of “lighting up every room she walked into.” More than just her radiant smile, Mrs. Von Seelen was known for her comforting wisdom. Spencer recounted how her mother always had a phrase ready to help navigate challenging or painful moments in life.
One of Carolyn Von Seelen’s most treasured sayings, as recalled by Lara, was: “Don’t be sad it’s over honey — be grateful it happened.” While Lara acknowledged the profound pain and sadness of losing her mother, she echoed this sentiment, expressing immense gratitude for Carolyn’s existence. “Sorry mama but there’s no way to not feel the pain of overwhelming sadness at the thought of not having you to share life with each day, but we sure are grateful YOU happened and showered us with your loving warmth and humor,” Lara wrote, her words resonating with the deep love she held for her mother.
Spencer further lauded her mother’s remarkable character, highlighting her courage, resilience, unwavering optimism, deep faith, and an immeasurable love for her family. Carolyn Von Seelen was not only a loving mother but also a doting grandmother to 12 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to four. Her passing on Friday the 13th, a date Lara noted her mother would have found amusing, was a moment of quiet reflection and profound love. “Our loving mom, grandmother to 12 and great-grandmother to four left us on Friday the 13th (which we know she would have gotten a kick out of) surrounded by her children and her beloved rescue dog to reunite with my dad and our sister Pamela,” Spencer shared. The heartfelt closing, “We love you always and forever mom,” encapsulates the enduring bond.
An Outpouring of Support and Fond Memories
Following Lara Spencer’s announcement, a wave of condolences flooded in from colleagues and friends across the broadcasting industry.
- Eva Pilgrim of Inside Edition expressed her deep sorrow, writing, “Oh Lara. I am so, so sorry for your loss. Sending you so much love.”
- Jenna Bush Hager from the Today show conveyed her sympathy, stating, “Sending you love Lara! I know how much you adored her.”
- Sara Haines of The View shared a personal connection, recalling, “Oh Lara! I remember her well. I’m so sorry to read this news. Sending so much love to you and your family.”
- Meteorologist Ginger Zee offered words of comfort, commenting, “So sorry Lara and sending you and the entire family so much love and peace.”
The sentiment of love and support extended to the Good Morning America studio itself. During Tuesday’s episode, the team took a moment to honour Carolyn Von Seelen, sharing personal anecdotes that illuminated her warm and generous spirit.
Robin Roberts fondly remembered Mrs. Von Seelen’s kindness. She recounted an instance where, despite not telling Lara about a speaking engagement in Florida, Carolyn Von Seelen discovered the visit through a local newspaper and surprised Robin by showing up.
Michael Strahan, a co-host of Good Morning America, commented on the act of kindness, remarking, “Knowing who Lara is, it isn’t a surprise that her mom would do something like that.” George Stephanopoulos echoed this sentiment, adding, “She popped in all the time with a big, big smile.” These shared memories paint a picture of a woman who was not only a devoted mother but also a source of joy and warmth to those around her. Carolyn Von Seelen’s legacy of love, resilience, and kindness will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.
