Carolyn P Sutton

Born on March 15, 1937, in Columbia, South Carolina, Carolyn was the daughter of the late Mettie Hughes Price and Otis Bernard Price. She spent her formative years in several small towns near Orangeburg, South Carolina, where she developed the strong sense of family, community, and a faith that would define her life.

A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Carolyn graduated from Beaufort High School, she earned a B.A. in Sociology from Winthrop University in 1959 and later a Master of Librarianship from the University of South Carolina in 1976. She began her career as a teacher before finding her true calling as a librarian—a role that perfectly suited her enduring love for books, learning, and helping others discover the joy of reading.

On April 27, 1961, Carolyn married the love of her life, Lieutenant Jack D. Sutton, USN. As a navy wife, she lived in many different states and also the country of Canada. Together, they shared 64 beautiful years of marriage, raising two sons, Jack D. “Jay” Sutton Jr. and Joseph M. “Joey” Sutton, and creating a home grounded in care, devotion, and love.

Carolyn's life was defined by her dedication to family and her many creative passions. Known as “Nana” to her cherished granddaughters, Sharon Ainsley Sutton and Kelsey Elizabeth Sutton, she relished every moment spent with them, sharing stories, recipes, and the magic of books. Her love of reading was so deep that she could never resist exploring every outdoor library box she came across, no matter where she was.

In addition to her literary pursuits, Carolyn was an accomplished crafter—knitting, crocheting, and creating intricate book art that reflected her boundless creativity. An exceptional cook, she delighted in collecting cookbooks—amassing over 140 throughout her life—and preparing comforting meals for her friends and family.

After retiring in Hanahan, South Carolina, Carolyn and Jack moved to the peaceful mountains of Saluda, North Carolina, where they enjoyed their post-retirement years surrounded by nature, books, and the love of the Saluda community.

One of her proudest moments occurred in 2020 when she finished and published a memoir of her life called Memories of a Southern Childhood. The book described her early childhood growing up in South Carolina and the many influences and events that shaped her into the person we all knew as Carolyn, Mom, and Nana. The book was enjoyed by her family and friends and serves as the definitive account of her life.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother Ray Bernard Price. She is survived by her devoted husband Jack, her sons Jay (wife Karen) and Joey, her granddaughters Ainsley and Kelsey, her sister, and close friend, Jane Price Cooper, and a host of extended family members and friends who will forever hold her memory close.

Carolyn P. Sutton lived a life full of love, purpose, and gentle strength. She leaves behind a legacy not only in the family she cherished but also in the countless lives she touched through her work and her words. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saluda Pop-Up Pantry (www.Saludapantry.com)