Dr. Starikoff received a liberal arts degree from U of M in 1956.  In 1981, she earned a Master of Arts degree from Arizona State University with a thesis on 18th Century British poet George Crabbe. Carole spent the next 15 years at ASU teaching composition and literature courses to hundreds of students of all backgrounds. In 1993, she earned her PhD from ASU with a dissertation titled "An anotated edition of the diary of Lady Frances Crewe." Her family honored her achievement by giving her the nickname "Dr. Mom."

Following her retirement from teaching, Carole and her husband became active members of the Heard Museum Guild, where Carole helped plan the museum's annual fair. They were avid collectors of Native American and First Nation art, and held Phoenix Symphony season tickets for several years. Carole also volunteered at the Desert Botanical Garden.

Survivors include two daughters; a son-in law; a daughter; a son and partner; three grandchildren; a great granddaughter; and a sister. Carole's husband Bernie, a daughter, a son-in-law and a brother preceded her in death.

A funeral service was held June 16, 2022 at Sinai Mortuary of Arizona. In lieu of flowers, tribute/memorial donations can be made to the Heard Museum of Phoenix.