Carol J. Spier

Carol J. Spier, 68, Editor and Costume Designer

Carol J. Spier, a magazine and book editor and designer of theater costumes, died suddenly on October 28 at her Bethlehem home after a brief illness. She was 68. Ms. Spier, previously of Manhattan and Sag Harbor, New York, was born on April 24, 1949. She grew up in Yellow Springs, Ohio, and was a graduate of Brandeis University. Much of her long career was spent in New York City, where she worked as a costumer for the 1984 film Muppets Take Manhattan and other Muppet productions. She also served as editor-in-chief of Taunton Press’s Threads Magazine. As a freelance editor for Hearst Books and St. Martin’s Press, among many other publishers, Ms. Spier oversaw the production of numerous illustrated books on crafts, knitting, sewing, and cooking. In recent years Ms. Spier worked as a volunteer for the Hollister House Garden in Washington, Connecticut, and was closely involved with the Bethlehem Land Trust. A supporter of local artists, she had a particular love for collecting paintings and prints, antiques, and folk art. She was also an enthusiastic gardener and cook and a discerning and avid reader. A gentle, unassuming spirit, unfailingly kind and supportive, she loved her family and many friends.

Ms. Spier is survived by Richard Cullen, her husband of 40 years; her brother, Peter Spier; and nieces Jessica Turner Spier and Kiera Cullen. She also leaves behind her brother-in-law, Robert Cullen, and her three sisters-in-law, Gail Turner, Caroline Cullen, and Jeanne Cunillera.

A reception celebrating Carol’s life will take place at the Hollister House Barn, 300 Nettleton Hollow Road, Washington, CT, on Nov. 5, from 12 PM to 2 PM.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hollister House Garden, the Bethlehem Land Trust, and The Michael J. Fox Foundation. Munson Lovetere Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. 

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