Carolyn Joan (Clark) Pollan

Her life began on July 12, 1937, in Houston, Texas, and from that day, she trail blazed her way through milestones and accomplishments. Carolyn graduated from Springdale High School and went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in Communication from John Brown University. She served on the Board of Directors for JBU from 1981-2008. She then obtained her PhD in Education from Walden University in 1993.

Carolyn served 24 years in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1974-1998. When she was elected, she was one of three women in the House. She served on the Education Committee, Legislative Council and Joint Budget Committee. Carolyn created the Children and Youth Committee and was later appointed Chairman. She was on the Executive Staff of Governor Mike Huckabee for three years. Carolyn was named “One of Ten Outstanding Legislators in the United States” by the National Assembly of Government and was named in the Associated Press Statewide Poll of 100 Influential People in Arkansas.

Carolyn’s faith was a guiding light in everything she did. She heard the cries of the needy, and sought to work towards justice and healing. Her main focus in the legislature was to be a voice for children. She worked with victims of domestic abuse and made the first domestic abuse hotline. She spoke in prophetic fashion as she advocated for a better future for women and children. She established the first Arkansas commission on child abuse, rape, and domestic abuse. Her career was dedicated to serving others.

As the family matriarch, Carolyn built a home that brought family and friends together. She was married to George Pollan for 56 years until his passing in 2017. She has two children, CeeCee Pollan Hollimon (husband, Mark Hollimon) and Rob Pollan (wife, Nancy Pollan). She has four grandchildren, Caroline Reynolds (husband, Rustin Reynolds), Michael Mings (wife, Sarah Mings), Max Pollan and Georgie Mings. She has three great grandchildren and one on the way. She is preceded in death by her husband, George Pollan and by her son, Todd Pollan.

There will be a private ceremony for family at the Pavilion in Oak Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Life at her home on Friday, October 29 at 3:30. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fort Smith Children’s Shelter or Hamilton House.