Carolyn Joan Smith

Ms. Carolyn Joan Smith, 82, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, in Clute, Texas. Born on July 17, 1942, in DeRidder, Louisiana, Carolyn embraced a life filled with love for family and an appreciation for life’s simple blessings.

She was the beloved daughter of Pauline Edith Smith and Gurvis William Smith. Carolyn was preceded in death by her brother, Gary Warren "Buz" Smith. Her memory is lovingly carried forward by her children: William Schales and his wife Kristi Schales; Paulalyn Kirtley and her husband Ryan Kirtley; and Robert Schales. She was a proud grandmother to Amanda Wagner and her husband Don Wagner; Taylor Khalili and her husband Austin Khalili; and Jacob Kirtley. Carolyn also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Dakota Brown and Eliza Khalili. Her sister-in-law, Jeanne Maureen Smith, also survives her.

Carolyn found joy in the little things that brought people together. She had a passion for card and board games, often gathering friends and family around the table for laughter-filled evenings. Her fondness for butterflies reflected her gentle spirit and appreciation for nature’s beauty. A devoted collector of cookie jars, each piece in her collection told a story and added charm to her home. Her memory will live on through those who knew and loved her. May her legacy bring comfort to all whose lives she touched. A Funeral Service will be held on July 12, 2025, at Central Assembly of God 709 W. Mulberry St. Visitation will be held at 9am with the service following at 10am. A graveside burial will be held at 5pm where Carolyn will be laid to rest at Hopewell Cemetery in DeRidder, La.