September 16, 1952 —April 23, 2025
After a long battle with Alzheimer’s, our cherished Mama and Dommy passed peacefully, surrounded by family on a sunny day to the sound of birds, leaving an enormous hole in our lives. She will be missed by everyone who couldn’t help but love her.
Carolyn was born in Gulfport, Mississippi to Fanchon and Peter Gardner. As a military brat, she traveled the world but settled in Austin, Texas to raise her children, where she met the love of her life, Jack. Carolyn had many professions throughout her life, doing everything from cosmetic sales to executive at Xerox, but once she relocated to Kingsland and created her company, May I Help You, Inc., she found her true calling. This allowed Carolyn to do what she always truly wanted - help as many people as possible through whatever means she could. Between 1996 and 2017 Carolyn thrived! She was on countless committees, President of both the Kingsland Chamber of Commerce and the American Cancer Society and won countless accolades for excellence related to both her business and her personal mission to heal her little corner of the world. Carolyn never met a stranger, never had an enemy, and there was no hobby she didn’t at least try, discovering an affinity for painting late in life. But there was little that Carolyn loved more than dancing! She especially loved ‘Happy’ by Pharell Williams, a song which, even in the deepest throes of Alzheimer’s, never failed to put a smile on her face.
Considerable thanks to the compassionate staff at Arbor House Horseshoe Bay and Hospice for making her last days as tranquil as possible. Carolyn is survived by her children, Wendy Ferrell (Brian) and Tim Ellers; grandchildren Maury James, Jack James, and Caleb Ferrell; nephew Brian Edington and family; and her brothers, Michael and Mark Gardner and their families. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Jack, her parents, and her sister Patricia Edington.
Funeral services will be held at the First Methodist Church of Marble Falls on May 10 at 2pm. Mom specifically requested that people not wear black, as she wanted a celebration of life rather than a somber occasion. Please wear bright colors to celebrate her joyful soul. In lieu of flowers we request that those who are able, please donate in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association.
