Carole Lee Smalley (Thorp) was born in 1933 California to Herald T Mackay and Verna Mae Talbert and went to be with Jesus March 6th, 2021. She was married to Frederick Rushton 1951 to 1970 and Dan Smalley 1971 to 1983. She is survived by her children, Mark and Joann Rushton, Gerry Rushton and Stacy Hennessy, and Judyrose and Rex Layfield plus five grandchildren (author included) and eight great grandchildren.
Carole was an independent, driven woman before her time. She applied her lead foot to any adventure she tackled, from spending 2 years as a missionary on Mercy Ships in Africa to backpacking to the highest peak in California in her 60’s or getting an English degree in her 50’s. After a long career as a bookkeeper, she combined her eye for taking beautiful photos with her ability to never meet a stranger for the local newspaper as a journalist who was often found in the middle of the story.
Carole was a spectacular matriarch of her family who happily sported a ‘GmasTxi’ license plate as she carted us hooligans everywhere, often fitting us in around her roadbike or other gear. She always managed to make a life for herself while still loving and deeply supporting her family. We will forever believe that ‘it’s all Gramma’s fault’ for every wild caper or funny story that we retell and it is such a blessing that we all have special stories to treasure.
Carole was a beloved friend who was quick to pull up a chair and listen to your life story. She made friends everywhere she went and was a vigilant prayer warrior for all of them. She loved her chickens, photography, a good margarita (or two), showing her horse Saber, singing in church, quilting, reading great saucy novels and forcing everyone to smile around her.
We were well loved by her and she was well loved by so many. And in the end, that’s the best adventure of all.
Carole Smalley - 1933-2021
Memorial - Fall 2021. Donations accepted at Mercy Ships International in her memory.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.allnuttloveland.com for the family.
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