Carolyn is preceded in death by her father, Dr. James H. Waddell, her mother, Virginia Vera Waddell, her step-mother, Miriam A. Waddell, brother, Scott Russell Robinson and sister, Lee Ann Carter. She is survived by her brothers, James “Butch” Waddell, Glen Robinson (Lynn) and Jerry Robinson (Valerie); sister, Faye Gilbert, brother-in-law Michael Carter and sister-in-law Martha Robinson as well as nieces, nephews and her “friendly families” at Springhill Memorial Hospital, Providence Hospital and in Mobile and Ocean Springs.
Carolyn was born on All Saints Day (November 1st) in 1951 in New Orleans and lost her fight for life on January 15, 2022 in Mobile. She earned her RN degree from the Providence School of Nursing in 1972 and cherished her time as a nurse, her career as Director of Surgical Services and the people she worked with in infection control to successfully achieve Joint Commission standards. All her life, she was a stealth contributor to the well being of others, often hearing of challenges and stepping in to make things better, one person at a time. She loved to ride her Can-Am Spyder until she found a good home for it when riding was no longer a viable option. She also found her joy when fishing, traveling to Key West and the Grand Canyon and camping in north Alabama. Carolyn “Bones” Bohnenstiehl walked her own path, did things her way, and was a true force for good on this planet. She will be missed.
Services will be held on Saturday, January 29th, 11:30 a.m. in the chapel at Radney Funeral Home on Dauphin Street in Mobile. The family will encourage masks and will host light refreshments after the service to foster a celebration of this life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, consider honoring her example with a charitable contribution for a scholarship in nursing, a gift of funds or food to a local animal shelter, or simply reach out to someone who needs a helping hand.
