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Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries

5100 Pontchartrain Blvd.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Carol Solomon Obituary

Ms. Carol A. Solomon, mother, grandmother, compassionate friend, business leader, mentor and CEO of Peoples Health, passed away surrounded by family and loved ones on Sunday, Dec. 4. She was 72 years old. Ms. Solomon is survived by her daughter, Michelle Solomon Long (Stephen), sister, Diana Embi, brother, Joseph Thomas, and granddaughter, Piper. Born in New York and raised in Miami, Florida, Ms. Solomon moved to New Orleans in 1993. Ms. Solomon had a passion and love for all things New Orleans. Some of her favorite traditions included watching Mardi Gras parades on St. Charles Avenue, trying new restaurants and cheering on the New Orleans Saints. A jazz and music lover, Ms. Solomon was an avid supporter of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation. In her role as CEO of Peoples Health, a Metairie-based Medicare Advantage organization, she grew the company from 60 employees and 1,500 managed care members to more than 55,000 members and nearly 1,000 employees. National and local organizations recognized her innovative approach to healthcare delivery and commitment to creating a healthier community. In 2014, Ms. Solomon received the Community Leadership Award from Modern Healthcare, a national industry publication. She was also recognized as a Driving Force by New Orleans CityBusiness in 2010 and 2015 and as a Healthcare Hero in 2008. She was recognized in 2004 and 2006 as a New Orleans CityBusiness Women of the Year honoree and received the top honor in 2008 as a Woman of the Year, where she was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Ms. Solomon was hailed as a philanthropist, committed to improving the health of Louisianans and an advocate of changing the perception of seniors. In 2003, she created the Peoples Health Champions program, which honors individuals over the age of 65, who have achieved incredible accomplishments because of their age, not in spite of it. Peoples Health Champions has become a beloved tradition at New Orleans Saints home games, with tens of thousands applauding Champions during on-field presentations. Another passion of Ms. Solomon's was ending the epidemic of senior hunger. In 2014, the Jefferson Parish Council on Aging faced devastating budget cuts, which threatened to cut meal delivery services to thousands of local seniors in need. Upon hearing about the issue, Ms. Solomon and Peoples Health stepped in to close the funding gap. She was also a supporter of Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana and the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Ms. Solomon also tackled the unique healthcare challenges faced by Louisiana residents through creating a model of care at Peoples Health. Recognizing the obstacles faced by members, she increased the company's contact with and support of its members by adding physicians, nurse practitioners, social workers, pharmacists and dieticians to the Peoples Health team. In addition to her commitment to helping those enrolled in Peoples Health Medicare Advantage plans improve their health, Ms. Solomon was also a proponent of improving the overall health of Louisianans on Medicare. She partnered with LSU Health Sciences Center to create the Center for Healthcare Advancement in 2012, which focused on creating best practices for managing chronic conditions including diabetes, cancer, renal failure, COPD and heart failure. Known for her passion and love of her chosen profession, Ms. Solomon once said, upon reflecting on her career, "At my first job someone told me, 'Always do your best, no matter how menial the job. Life's too short to do something you don't enjoy. And most importantly, make a difference.'" This sentiment is something she continuously echoed throughout her career and was evidenced in her every approach whether personal or professional. Ms. Solomon was an active supporter of many local organizations, serving as a founding member of the United Way of Southeast Louisiana Women's Leadership Initiative and a board member of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation and the Louisiana Association of Health Plans. She also served as president of WWOZ's board of directors and on the boards of the Louisiana Public Health Institute, Jefferson Business Council, New Orleans Opera Association and United Way board of trustees. Ms. Solomon will be best remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and friend. Her compassion and commitment to creating a better, healthier, happier world impacted countless lives. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Family and friends are invited to St. Mary's Church, 1116 Chartres Street, New Orleans for visitation and Words of Remembrance beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by funeral mass at 12:00 p.m. To sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Way of Southeast Louisiana.

Published by The Advocate from Dec. 7 to Dec. 10, 2016.
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Memories and Condolences
for Carol Solomon

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Today, on what would have been Carol's 75th birthday, I am reminded of what an incredible woman she was and am thankful for the opportunity to have known and worked for her and for the positive influence she had on my life. I reminisce on her shared wisdom, creativity, kindness, and generosity that touched so many lives. Carol was passionate about life and work, her brilliance and vision were without limitation. She was about doing the right thing and being fair, and treated everyone with respect. She gave of herself wholeheartedly in listening to those who came to her for professional or personal guidance. The world, and especially New Orleans, is a much better place for her having been in it. Her family and loved ones will always be in my prayers. Carol was truly extraordinary, and will always be lovingly remembered, and deeply missed.

Gail Bragg

December 12, 2018

Just learned of the death of Ms. Carol Solomon and wanted to communicate my heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends. May her soul rest in peace.

J U

April 23, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

With sympathy,
Antoine "Fats" Domino and Family

Antoine "Fats" Domino

December 28, 2016

I have such fond memories of Carol. She made everyone feel important. That is a rare trait. Her King's Day parties were always fabulous and those sweet potato biscuits just divine. I will miss her. Cherry Bordelon

Cherry Bordelon

December 28, 2016

You will be missed! You were a champion of us all.
Llera Family, Florida

December 14, 2016

Ms. Solomon was a great leader in the health care community and she will be missed.My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Ms. Solomon's vision to start the Peoples Health Champion program was extraordinary. Elderly people over the age of 65 are honored at each Saints Home Game every year for their incredible accomplishments. What a lovely tribute to give to the elderly community of our state. Ms Solomon is the one that made this happen. God has a new Angel in heaven, and her name is Carol. As a past Champion, I salute you Ms. Solomon. You are, and always will be, a Champion to me!

Linda Prattini

December 12, 2016

We salute this amazing lady, who was such an incredible force in the business world and so generous in her support of our work at Second Harvest. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family. We are so sorry for your loss.

Natalie Jayroe

December 12, 2016

Ms. Carol will be missed, she's was truly respected in the community as leader and visionary. My family was blessed with the opportunity to know Ms. Solomon and her family.

Sending our sincere condolences.
Estavan Carter, III

Estavan Carter

December 10, 2016

I was impressed with Ms. Solomon from the first day she took over the reins of our organization.In her leadership role I was most impressed with her sincere ability to communicate with individuals;such a generous person.Ms. Solomon will be sorely missed is an understatement.

J.E. Kerl

December 10, 2016

Michelle, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your mom was a lovely lady and will certainly be missed by all who knew her and had the privilege of working under her guidance.

Diane Nata

December 9, 2016

Carol was extremely dedicated to making PHN a successful company and making all those around proud to be a part of it. She was also very generous and kind hearted.
I will truly miss her.
My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Joe Puente

Joe PUENTE

December 9, 2016

A true professional and a lovely lady. She did so much for so many, both personally and professionally . I am proud she was my friend and associate. RIP Carol.

Dan Jumonville

December 9, 2016

Michelle, So sorry to hear about your mother's passing. I will always remember her from my short time at NOJHFF and, most certainly, my interview and time at PH. Words do not ever seem to provide the comfort that is warranted at this time of life, but please accept my sincere condolences to you and your family.

Meryl Leiva

December 9, 2016

Carol was a great leader and competitor. She made all of us better by pushing the envelope in the health insurance industry. We will miss her friendship.

Jeff Fernandez (Humana)

December 9, 2016

Carol was one of the most respected and professional leaders in the business community. The People's Health employees were her second family and I was lucky enough to call her both a business colleague and my friend. You will be sadly missed and in my prayers and thoughts.

Jeffrey Gilmore

December 8, 2016

Ms. Solomon was a true gem! Her passion, drive and love for Peoples Health was infectious to all who worked for her. Heaven has gained an exceptional angel, may you rest in peace.

Amy Ancar-Walton

December 8, 2016

I cannot begin to fathom the loss of an exceptional and extraordinary woman, who dedicated her life to her family, career and the community, and who also gave me the opportunity to be a part of a great company. She will be deeply missed.

Victoria Smith

December 8, 2016

Guadalupe Erazo

December 8, 2016

Carol will be really missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family in this time. She was truly a special person.

Marguerite Riehm

December 8, 2016

Carol was a generous lady and given always had a smile I know that the Lord is having a smile there come an Angel from earth. I will miss you and many folks will also miss you. Carol with a big heart and a smile

RAFAEL PERALES

December 8, 2016

Carol Solomon was a kind and friendly person to me and all she met. I shall miss her dearly !!!!

Johnny Jackson jr

December 8, 2016

We are eternally grateful to have known Carol Solomon as a caring mentor, a shining role model and a kind, generous and compassionate CEO. She was genuine and unpretentious. We will sorely miss her and extend our deepest sympathies to her family.
Harold Moore and Cheryl Gardner

Harold/Cheryl Moore

December 8, 2016

Oh Michelle, your mom was one of those few women we get the pleasure to experience in our short time here together. I came to the then called People's Health Network as a RN, which managed the Medicare HMO to the then Tenet hospitals, in 1997 and worked with a number of great folks, of which your mom taught me more than just 'Insurance lingo' and the business but more importantly the aspect of treating people humane and with dignity in a business that can easily be ruthless. It was always that I would approach Ms. Carol with a case that she listened, but asked me what I thought. She wanted us to always include and validate our thoughts. She was a GREAT teacher. In the role she held, she always valued us "little folks" which she hated that term, but she really valued her team.
Ms.Carol will always remain a valuable person in my life and I am honored to have worked with her.
You can be very proud of her.

Shelly Schieble

December 8, 2016

Ms. Solomon was a wonderful woman. Very passionate about her employees and members. She was the definition of a LEADER. She will forever be missed. Heaven gained another angel. My prayers of strength and deepest condolences are with the family.

Christina

December 8, 2016

Carol was an amazing woman. She was a boss that challenged me and mentored me. She had an incredible vision for the company and healthcare. But she was so much more than my boss. She was a friend that always wanted to know how your life was going and share personal experiences and stories. She really cared about all of the employees at Peoples Health in a personal, friendly - sometimes motherly way. Carol was such a pillar in the community and her desire to make New Orleans and Louisiana a better place drove everything she did in both the business world and her personal commitments and dedication. New Orleans is a better place because of her presence and each of us that worked with her are better people because of the experience. Her example as a woman, a business leader, a community supporter and a friend will live on in this community and company. She will be missed but her mark on New Orleans will go on and on.

Macon Moore

December 8, 2016

Ms. Solomon was a very caring, compassionate person. She truly cared about the members as well as her employees at Peoples Health. Working for her has truly been a blessing to me. Her passing is a very big loss to the company as well as the community. Rest in Peace Ms. Solomon.

Trinell Robertson

December 8, 2016

My prayers and thoughts are with my family. We have all suffered a great loss. Carol was a loving kind person. She was always there for you when you needed her.

Virginia Vizcarrondo

December 8, 2016

You knew you were in the presence of someone special when you were with Carol. It didn't matter if it was just she and I in a room discussing how to meet the needs of one member or if I were in a room with 600 colleagues listening to her at a podium - she penetrated your being. Her tempo was that of a maestro. Carol entertained many of my outrageous ideas but one thing she said to me one day in a staff meeting following just a typical underling protestation of mine remains on continuous loop in my brain: "Abraham, from your lips to God's ears" - said smiling, and in one breath. I had no words, no protest left in me. She won me...as she always did, letting me know in three seconds time that I was appreciated, loved, but impossible. Well now more than ever, shall Carol's words be my prayer out loud and to God when I say - rest in peace Carol, my champion of champions.

Abraham Elhiany

December 8, 2016

There are not enough words to express my gratitude to Carol Solomon. I have learned so much from her and I am honored to have known her. She was a remarkable woman and I will miss her every day. Michelle, my deepest sympathies to you, Stephen and Piper. May her spirit soar high among the heavens and her memory bring peace to all who love her on earth.

December 7, 2016

Ms.Solomon was a kind and gentle soul and will be greatly missed by all. Michelle and Stephen, your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Dawn Gwin

December 7, 2016

My deepest sympathy to the Solomon family for your loss. May you find comfort in the God of all comfort because he cares for you.
1Peter 5:6-7

Steve

December 7, 2016

Our deepest sympathy to all. Carol was an amazing woman that will be missed by all. Our prayers for the family. May she rest in peace.

Ricardo and Neyza Rodriguez

December 7, 2016

When I first came to Peoples Health ,I was lost in the parking garage ,Ms Solomon told me to hop in her car ,She said what position you are interviewing for ,I reply member service ,She walked me to Human Resource ,not one time she mention she was the Ceo of the company, When I interview with Rose manager in Member Service she inform me who Ms Solomon was , Ms Solomon had a thing ever employee came through the doors she sit down with and wanted to know something about them ,everyone laugh when my story was shared ,Heaven Have A Win ! Your memories will stay alive with me forever ,One of the Best Ceo I ever worked for !Germaine Gee Jefferson ~ New Orleans ,La 70122

Germaine Jefferson

December 7, 2016

Michelle, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. Even though I only worked with her for a short period of time I greatly admired her. She was a lady of inspiration and kindness. My thoughts and prayers are with and your family.

Gayle Farrens

December 7, 2016

My prayers and thoughts and hugs go out to the family. Ms. Carol was an inspiration and a teacher to all that crossed her path. She was a wonderful person and I am very grateful to have known and worked for her.

Elise Hughes

December 7, 2016

Joseph Trahan

December 7, 2016

Milliman Minneapolis

December 7, 2016

a loved one

December 7, 2016

I remember Carol fondly, and I'm deeply saddened that she's gone. She personally interviewed every single prospective staff member for Peoples Health, and I was honored to meet her.

Carol was a spectacular woman and leader, and she will be sincerely missed. My deepest condolences to her family, friends, and staff at Peoples Health. Heaven has gained another angel.

Lisa Mayeaux

December 7, 2016

Tonia Yazgi

December 7, 2016

Our deepest sympathies and prayers on the loss of a truly lovely lady.
May you dance among the angels Carol .
M. George Thomas, MD.
Safeer Ahmad, M.D.
and the staff of Northlake Cardilogy, Inc.

Northlake Cardiology

December 7, 2016

I was truly sadden by the news of your passing. I will always remember your smile and your kindness to everyone to meet. My you rest in peace.

Peggy George

December 7, 2016

Michelle, Piper and Stephen,

I cannot express the depth of my sorrow for you all at this most difficult time. Obviously, Carol was an outstanding person, remarkable woman, loving mother and grandmother, and extraordinary leader. I hope with time the pain of her loss will fade, and the joyful memories will remain with you forever. Love you all. Tonia

December 7, 2016

a loved one

December 7, 2016

Linda Murray

December 7, 2016

Such a gracious lady. She always had a kind word for everyone. My deepest condolences to Michelle and family.

Melissa Neyrey

December 7, 2016

Carol was a revolutionary in healthcare. She led the way, open doors for so many and will be deeply missed. Thank you Carol for your guidance, exceptional leadership and opening the door for women in leadership roles. Rest in Peace; your job is now complete.

Bonnie Wibel

December 7, 2016

Carol, We will always remember your kindness and generosity. Rest in peace my friend. Mark and Susan Kappelman

Susan Kappelman

December 6, 2016

My heart goes out to Michelle and Piper at this time. Carol was a wonderful leader in healthcare but even better, she had a heart of gold. Her mission was to leave things better than she found them and she has accomplished that in so many ways. She will be sorely missed by our New Orleans community whom she embraced with her whole soul. Rest well. Strong work!

Pam Gillette

December 6, 2016

Words cannot express the deep sorrow that I feel for Miss Solomon's family at this time. The loss of a parent, grandparent or sibling is one of the greatest pains we will ever endure. Please know that you are on my mind and in my heart. Miss Solomon was an exceptional leader and an extraordinary woman. She was truly dedicated to the community and her efforts will continue to impact the New Orleans community for years to come. Her compassion and love for our Peoples Health members was sensed by all; employees, vendors, physicians, hospitals and most important of all, the members. She was involved in so many endeavors in our wonderful city I honestly don't know how she was able to accomplish so much as well as running a successful business. Rest now Miss Solomon. We will never forget all that you have done and you will continue to make a difference through the employees and company that you have built.

Sara Toups

December 6, 2016

I light this candle with it's shimmering glow as a reminder of the Light that shimmered everyday from Ms. Carol. She lit up a room when she was talking about our members, her family, her precious granddaughter Piper, her job. She was a mentor to all of us on a daily basis. Only Time will heal the tremendous hurt and loss felt, but grace will heal us and memories of her will help us smile again. My deepest heartfelt sympathy to Michelle, Piper, Stephen and family......Always....Ava Wichser Romair

Ava Wichser Romair

December 6, 2016

Nancy Kanaplue

December 6, 2016

To try to measure the stature of Ms. Carol would be like trying to explain the value of a hug or a smile. Ms. Carol was magnanimous, intelligent, courageous, kind and for some of us who had the privilege to have contact with her, her loss is unbearable. My deepest condolences to the Solomon Long and Thomas Family.

Guadalupe Erazo

Guadalupe Erazo

December 6, 2016

Carol Solomon was an extraordinary woman. She has touched the lives of so many people in our community through her life of service, dedication, love, compassion and excellence. May she rest in peace. To the Solomon and Thomas family, we extend our heartfelt sympathy.

Suzanne Abadie and Sanders Thomas

Suzanne Abadie

December 5, 2016

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Memorial Events
for Carol Solomon

Dec

9

Visitation

9:30 a.m.

St. Mary's Church

1116 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70124

Dec

9

Funeral Mass

12:00 p.m.

St. Mary's Church

1116 Chartres Street,, New Orleans, LA 70124

Funeral services provided by:

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries

5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124

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