Carolyn Ann Smith

The Temptations once sang, "I've got sunshine on a cloudy day," and they must have been singing about Carolyn Ann Smith. Bubbly, kind, and endlessly fun, Carolyn lit up every room she entered. Her infectious spirit touched lives in ways words cannot capture. But we’ll give it a try now.

Born in Murphysboro, Illinois, on October 9, 1950, Carolyn was a loving sister and the eldest of nine siblings. Growing up in the heart of San Francisco, she attended Woodrow Wilson High School before pursuing her passion for design, earning an Associate of Science degree in Interior Design from San Jose City College.

In 1965, Carolyn encountered the love of her life, Aaron Smith, in the hills of San Francisco. Their love story unfolded, and they exchanged vows on Valentine's Day in 1970. Together, they navigated life's journey until Aaron's passing in 2017.

Carolyn was a force of nature, with a career as diverse as her interests. From the bustling halls of Adobe, Google, and IBM to creating beautiful spaces as an interior designer and even gracing the Levi Stadium with her touch—she did it all. A woman of many passions, she was a proud Star Wars and Indiana Jones aficionado, always ready for the next great adventure.

Her "hug-a-bunch," as she affectionately called her three beloved children, Tiona, Kinshasa (Shas), and Erin (J'Kia), felt her love in every encouraging word and supportive gesture. Carolyn was not just a mom; she was an angel who inspired her children to reach for the stars, reminding them constantly, "Love you bunches.”

Her children fondly remember her eclectic pursuits—whether it was belting out tunes in the church choir at Jubilee Christian Center/Redemption or venturing into the entrepreneurial realm with her own Interior Design business. Carolyn carried a unique enchantment wherever she went, infusing each endeavor with her special kind of magic. Beyond her professional and artistic ventures, she held a profoundly special place in her heart for an extensive network of loved ones, including nieces and nephews, aunties and uncles, cousins and godparents, in-laws and dear friends. Carolyn delighted in sharing not just her life but also captivating stories about this abundant circle of cherished individuals.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the memories we shared with Carolyn, a woman whose laughter echoed in our hearts. As we bid farewell, may we find solace in the joy she brought to our lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Carolyn’s Go Fund Me page (https://www.gofundme.com/f/carolyn-ann-smith)