Carolyn Gulledge

With heavy hearts, we share that Carolyn “Susie” Gulledge, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 31st, 2026, at the age of 78.

Susie was born on February 12, 1947, in Savannah, Georgia, to Joe and Natoria “Tory” Visnich. She spent her childhood growing up in Savannah, GA, Signal Mountain, TN and Chattanooga, TN where she developed her gracious spirit, a love for people, and a lifelong curiosity about the world. In her early adulthood, she worked as a flight attendant, a career that ignited her love of travel,

ultimately bringing her to California, where she met the love of her life, Albert “Larry” Gulledge.

On August 24, 1971, Susie and Larry were married, beginning a 54-year journey marked by faith, partnership, and love. Together, they built a life rich in family, friendship, and shared purpose.

Susie had a natural gift for interior design and played an important role in Larry’s custom home business, helping bring warmth, elegance, and thoughtful detail to the homes they created. Her creativity and eye for design helped transform houses into welcoming homes for countless families. After retiring, Susie joyfully devoted herself to serving Jesus, participating in mission work, and embracing a life of travel.

Her faith was the foundation of everything she did. Susie deeply loved Jesus and cherished her travels to Israel and other mission trips, experiences that strengthened her walk and reflected her servant’s heart. She also delighted in the cruise life, spending much of her and Larry’s retirement years traveling the seas together and creating treasured memories with friends.

Above all, Susie cherished her family. She is survived by her daughters, Stacey Petruna and Leah (Paul) Carpenter; her grandchildren, Jordyn, Eliana, Lexi, and Mason; her great-grandchildren, Brynlie and Coltin, and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Natoria “Tory” Visnich, her brother Joe Visnich Jr, and her beloved husband, Larry Gulledge.

A combined Celebration of Life honoring both Susie and her beloved husband, Larry Gulledge, will be held on March 21, where family and friends will gather to share memories, reflect on their lives, and celebrate the love they shared.