Carol was preceded in death by her parents; first husband Thomas Brown; daughter Kellie Brown; four siblings: Hilda Stone, Lyndale Carter, Luther (Johnny) Lipscomb Jr., and Shirley Taylor; and husband Henry Smith.
She is survived by four sons: Luther Brown and wife Lisa, Thomas Brown and wife Barbara, Gary Brown, Charles Brown and wife Catherine; two daughters: Vanessa Morris and Stacey Brown; fourteen grandchildren: Chase Brown, Brandon Brown (Beth), Taylor Brown (Warren), Blake Brown (Becky), Thomas Morris, Jamie Morris, Amanda Morris, John Coleman Jr. (Jessica), Charles Brown, Kymberly Brown, Destinee Brown, Desiree Brown, Bayli Brown (Gavin), and Ramsi Brown; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many dear friends.
Carol took pride in her nursing career at Central Virginia Training Center where she dedicated over 4o years before retiring. She was a faithful Christian and last attended church at New Beginning Tabernacle in Madison Heights. Carol was a loving wife, mother, Nanny, sister, and friend.
Carol showed her love in many ways–including the meals that she prepared for her family. She was a wonderful cook. Her family always looked forward to delicious food when spending time together. Her children fondly remember the Christmas mornings that she spent making homemade biscuits, gravy, and scrapple. As the family expanded, Carol always reserved a place where her family and friends could continue her tradition. She ensured there was more than enough room for all–at her Christmas gatherings and in her heart.
Carol was exceptionally caring and devoted to her family. As proud as she was of her children and grandchildren in all their big accomplishments—marriages, births, graduations, and promotions–she was just as excited to talk about their day-to-day lives. She made sure that all of her children, grandchildren, and daughters-in-law received birthday cards, Christmas cards, and loving goodnight wishes. She assured that her family always felt loved and supported from near and afar.
Carol was the life of any party. When she danced, all eyes were on her (including Henry Smith’s the night that he met her at Moose Lodge 715). When she joked, laughter filled the room. She was a beautiful, confident woman who lived the life that she wanted. Her legacy of love will endure in all of the lives she has touched.
Her family will commemorate a Celebration of Life from 11:00-12:30 on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, at New Beginning Tabernacle 1886 S Coolwell Road, Madison Heights, Virginia 24572. The service will be led by Pastor Gary Moore.
