Carolyn Corley

Carolyn Marie Wilson Corley, daughter of Clifford and Mosie Wilson, was born on December 26, 1943, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, at the age of 80. Carolyn was a creator of joy, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and friend who filled the lives of those around her with warmth, kindness, and thoughtfulness.

Growing up in Louisiana, the youngest sibling to Jimmy and Beverly Wilson, Carolyn’s childhood was filled with the simple pleasures of riding pine trees and exploring the outdoors. These moments instilled in her a lifelong appreciation for nature, which she carried into adulthood as she crafted beautiful, welcoming surroundings at the family’s lake house and home. Always mindful of the small creatures with whom they shared land, she created spaces not only for her family but for the birds and animals that brought her joy.

A talented and meticulous painter, quilter, crafter, and cook, her special touches were evident in every holiday celebration, especially Christmas and Thanksgiving. Her southern cornbread dressing & homemade cranberry sauce were family favorites, eagerly anticipated at each gathering. Carolyn’s thumbprint will remain part of our traditions. Ever thoughtful, she was an excellent gift- giver, always putting careful thought into each present, tailored to each recipient. Whether it was preparing favorite meals, sending heartfelt birthday cards, or making regular phone calls to friends, Carolyn’s special touches left lasting impressions on her loved ones.

When she wasn’t busy creating something with her hands, she could be found absorbed in a good mystery novel, cheering on the Texas Rangers with Steve or working a puzzle in the sunroom during her cherished weekly visits with Jamey or Jackson. Her children and grandchildren will fondly remember her endearing, high-pitched squeal of delight whenever she encountered anything “itty bitty.” She turned out to be our “itty bittiest” family member.

After 25 years as a hairdresser in Tioga, Louisiana, Carolyn retired in Garland, Texas, where she spent the next 37 years as faithful & loving wife to her best friend, Steve Corley and devoted mother to Jamey McMahon (spouse Sylvia Gonzales), Stacye Corley Norlin (spouse John Norlin Jr.), and the late Kim Corley Riter. Her grandchildren—Alexandra Murdoch, Grace Riter, and Jackson Norlin— will miss her dearly, as will her closest friends and extended family.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am, September 17, 2024 at New Hope Memorial Gardens in Sunnyvale, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Dallas Arboretum honoring her lifelong commitment to giving back.

Carolyn’s spirit of joy, creativity & generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will forever enrich the lives of her loved ones.