Carolyn Sue Patton

Carolyn Sue Patton (née Haslett), 72, passed away on July 12, 2025, in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on December 16, 1952, in Belvidere, Illinois, to Claude and Roberta Haslett, Carolyn devoted her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally.

She married the love of her life, Eddie L. Patton Sr., on May 7, 1988, in Peoria. They shared a beautiful life together until his passing in 2019.

Carolyn is lovingly remembered by her children: Darrell (Olivia) Haslett of Canton, IL; Michelle Haslett of Peoria, IL; Kendra (Tim) Estes of Austin, TX; Eddie (Sarah) Patton of Peoria, IL; Rachael Patton of Peoria, IL; and Whitney (David) Anderson of Peoria, IL. She was a proud grandmother of 24 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren—with one more expected in October—who brought her endless joy and whom she cherished deeply.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Carolyn was the heart of her family. She placed her children and grandchildren above all else, offering unconditional love, wise guidance, and unwavering support in their lives and dreams.

Carolyn dedicated her career to nursing, working at both OSF and Proctor hospitals, where she specialized in the care of premature infants. Her compassion and steady presence brought comfort to countless families.

Beyond her professional life, Carolyn’s heartbeat for music. She began playing the baritone and euphonium as a child and continued through her years with the East Peoria High School marching band and later the Peoria Municipal Band. She shared her gift wherever she could through church performances, community events, and moments with loved ones, believing music was a way to bring joy and healing.

A celebration of Carolyn’s life will be held on Friday, July 18, 2:00pm at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Parkview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carolyn’s honor to The Gift of Music Foundation, an organization close to her heart.