Carolyn Riley

On Sunday, July 7, 2024, Carolyn Kay Riley’s faith became her sight as she made her appearance in Heaven. She was received there by Jesus, her mother and father, Clarence and Norma Hill, a loving bonus mother Joy Hill, and many other family and friends who had gone before her. Those left behind include her sister Paula (Bob) McCauley, step-sister Sandy Spalding (Tommy), step-brother Larry (Cindy) Spalding, her children: Jennifer Naples, Stephanie (Johnny) Smoke, Greg (Kristen) Cowart of Hot Springs, and Nick (Kelsey) Riley of Kilgore, TX, 9 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren, along with a host of extended family and friends who loved her dearly.

Kay was born on February 5, 1946 in Hot Springs, AR. She was known for her sweet demeanor, wonderful sense of humor, and occasional “side eye” when she deemed it necessary. Kay and her sister Paula were raised in a bunderful Christian household, and their daddy Clarence was a church youth director, music evangelist, and music director. There were times as kids during revivals that Paula would get them into trouble by making KK laugh, which was always followed by “the look” and a foot tap from their daddy as he watched from the stage. These sisters were best friends, Paula always jumping at the chance to aggravate her sister to the point of hearing “PAULA!” Especially when she told people that Kay’s kids were hers. They had the sweetest relationship- always laughing and reminiscing together, praying, crying, then laughing again, and always loving each other. They had such a blessed raising by a precious mama who had a bit of a mischievous streak, which they both inherited, and an amazing daddy with that same humor, always laughing. They were raised around their cousins, and some of the best times were spent gathering at Aunt Oleane’s house for hours, just telling stories, laughing, and eating. Kay was a living definition of an overcomer. She conquered illness, loss, and tough situations, always trusting God to make a way for her, and He always did. She had an amazing group of friends that were a constant source of strength and support to her and her kids. Her love for her children and sweet niece Kimmer was unconditional, never wavering, and always sweet. Even when her “little volunteer” late in life child Nick would test the extent of that love as he tested her nerves. She loved having a house full of noisy kids when friends would come by, loving each as her own. You could always hear her call them “honey”, and many of them called her Mama Kay.

Kay was an amazing cook, and loved sharing her recipes, and always knew how to “make do” with what she had. There was always music playing in her house, no matter which one she was living in that month. Her children were raised hearing a montage of The Gaithers, Don Williams, Johnny Duncan, with the BeeGees thrown in. She always made Christmas magical for her kids, spending countless hours getting ready for school and church plays, but still finding the time to have her kids put ALL the icicles on the tree, no matter how many clogged the vacuum and made it whistle in January. She and Jennifer “Jiffy” are so much alike with their kind, giant hearts, willing to do anything to help someone in need and compassion for people they love. She always said that her Stephanie was just like her daddy, Clarence. She was so proud of Greg, for his ability to be the glue holding so much together - always with wit, love, and honest humor that kept everyone in stitches. She was overjoyed with Nick being such an amazing Christian father, leading his family always towards Jesus. Kay left an impression on everyone she met with her sweet disposition and the ability to meet people and make them feel welcome and loved. This never stopped the entirety of her time on earth. She had a special love for her bonus daughters Kristen and Kelsey. She absolutely adored them, and they did her. She may have even apologized to them for her sons being ornery from time to time. She also loved her bonus son Johnny, who often heard “BOY” when he was pushing her buttons, always followed by I love you. Her grand babies each had a special and unique relationship with their Mawmaw. Adam was her first grand baby that she adored. She and Hannah loved sharing inside jokes, laughter, and grilled cheese. She was Mia’s best friend and confidante, talking on the phone for hours. She and Ara had an emotional bond that was so strong, just being with each other and catching up was heart reviving. She and Layne could sit and talk for hours about anything and everything , it was such a natural flow. She and Karlie had a sweet relationship that was full of love and laughter and Mawmaw always enjoying her magic tricks. She deeply loved Gage, and having his sweet hugs and hearing about his baseball adventures, also making sure to keep his parents lined out regarding any discipline. She and Jaxon would smile and love on each other every chance they got, him studying her face, and her smile lighting up the room. She loved Fisher and hearing his latest antics that are almost a replica of his dad’s at that age. Kay’s great grand babies were such a bright spot in her life. Her face lit up at the mention of their names. And oh how they loved their Mawmaw! All she ever wanted for her family was for them to know and walk with the Lord, so they can join her in Heaven one day.

Her family is so grateful for the staff at Village Springs Nursing and Rehabilitation for caring for Kay with such love and attention….and buttermilk. They would also like to express their sincere gratitude to all those who have offered their condolences and prayers. There will be a gathering to celebrate KK at a later date, which will be announced on Facebook.