In the early morning hours of November 7, 2019, at the age of 96, Carolyn went to be with her Lord. Over the years, Carolyn had become the matriarch of her large and loving family. She was born in North Birmingham and graduated Phillips High School. She married the love of her life, Willard Pate, on November 18, 1941, only three weeks before Pearl Harbor. When Willard returned from Naval service in 1945, they set up housekeeping, and Willard returned to his job at ACIPCO. They welcomed their son, Robert Gordon, in September 1947, and their son, James Gary, in June 1951. After living on Pine Mountain in the early 50's, they moved to Gardendale, where she lived out the rest of her life. She taught Sunday School for over fifty years and was uncompromising in her faith. She retired from Sherwin-Williams Paint Company and volunteered for years at Children's Hospital. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all knew that, while she was sometimes wrong, she was never in doubt. She was brilliant and loving and witty, and she suffered no fools, especially when beating them soundly in Scrabble. She was predeceased by her husband of over 60 years, Willard Pate, as well as her parents Baxter and Jo Smith, six siblings, and a host of cousins and dear friends. She is survived by her sons, Gordon (Shawnie), Gary (Crystal); grandsons Gavin (Janna), Ashby, and Willard; granddaughter Riley; and great-grandchildren Mason, Beckett, Rhea, Oa, and Veda Rose. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2019, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel, with services immediately to follow at 2:30 p.m. Burial is at Moncrief Cemetery, Gardendale.
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