Carolyn Gilbreth

Carolyn Kay Gilbreth was born on December 21, 1946 in Sheldon, Missouri, an early Christmas present to her parents, HJ Gilbreth and Marjorie Sherman Gilbreth. She was the middle child between two brothers. She entered heaven on Easter morning, March 31, 2024, in Nevada. Missouri, just a few miles from where she was born.

Carolyn took pride in being raised as an “Army brat.” She spent her childhood in a variety of states. She also made many memories living in Japan for a short time. Carolyn attended Northside High School and Mellie’s Beauty College in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She then married and fulfilled her dream of becoming a mother. In California, Arkansas, Texas, Missouri, and Nebraska, Carolyn was a stay-at-home mom to Brian Travis, Mechele Yvette, and Kimberly Kay for twenty-five years. Carolyn kept a perfect home. She had a delicious, well-balanced meal on the table every night at 5:30, and was gifted with managing the family finances. Carolyn enjoyed being a member of Welcome Wagon and bowling in a league. She also took time to be involved as a Girl Scout leader and room mother for her children’s classes.

After the marriage between Carolyn and her children’s father ended, Carolyn showed her grit and desire to fulfill new goals. She moved to Oklahoma and worked in the accounts receivable department for Halliburton before pursuing a college degree in her forties. She graduated from Cameron University with an Associate’s Degree and then a Bachelor of Science, both in Criminal Justice. Carolyn spent the remainder of her working days as a security guard at the University of Oklahoma Sam Noble Museum.

Upon her retirement, Carolyn moved to Nevada, Missouri to live near her son and his family. Her well-loved chihuahua, Layla, was her constant retirement companion. In Nevada she was active in her church and volunteered in the church office. Carolyn was raised a Lutheran and attended Baptist churches when her children were young, but later found the Episcopal faith to be where she felt the most peace. All Saints Episcopal Church in Nevada was a church home for Carolyn.

Carolyn delighted in her grandchildren and was particularly thrilled to become a great-grandmother. Her living room was full of family pictures spanning many generations. Carolyn also loved the music of Elvis, movies, and reading.

Carolyn is survived by her children, Brian and Kris Porter, Mechele and Jason Myers, Kim and Richard Divelbiss, nine grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. She is also survived by many forever in-laws in the Porter family. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents and one brother.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.