Annie Johnstone Carden

Annie Johnstone Fawdry Carden, 82, of Franklin, TN, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 9, 2021, after a short stay at Alive Hopsice in Nashville. She leaves behind a legacy of nine children who love her deeply and carry on in her spirit of fierce independence, easy humor and grit.

Annie was born on June 14, 1938 in Kilmaurs, East Ayrshire, Scotland. She was the daughter of the late Laurence George Fawdry and Annie Johnstone Walker Fawdry. She is survived by her brother, Martin Fawdry (Betty); son Joseph Fawdry (Margaret) and their children, Raquell and Stephen; James Carden (Tara); Stacey Carden (Linda); Stephanie Carden and her children Zachery and Rachel; Leslie Carden and her children Anthony and Aaron Dickens; Stephen Carden and his children Joseph and Lucy; Jonathan Carden (Beth) and their children Laura and Julia, Sarah Bailey (Benjamin) and their children Stella and Elise; and Jason Carden; along with 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

After graduating from Kilmarnock Academy, for which she was very proud, and attending college in Montreal, Canada, Annie came to the U.S. and married James Carden. Together they raised eight children, residing predominantly in West Virginia, with Annie later moving to Franklin, Tennessee. With each new baby on the way, she would say “Oh well, another potato for the pot.” She was a natural saleswoman, as she was interested and interesting - breaking records as a first-year saleswoman – to the amazement and joy of her husband. Ultimately, Annie’s children were her life, always foremost in her thoughts and deeds. She was an incredible cook – making everything from scratch for her large brood, rarely following a recipe and just using what she had in the pantry. She was a talented seamstress, from clothing to drapery to upholstery and enjoyed in making her home warm, welcoming and beautiful. Throughout her life she was an avid reader, remaining curious and thoughtful. Annie had great pride in her Scottish heritage, frequently reminding her children of the accomplishments of her fellow Scots. She had a dry wit – making everyone around her laugh – but also suffered no fools. It was always good to have Annie in your corner, as she would be your fiercest defender, putting family first, no matter the cost. They broke the mold with this beautiful, feisty little Scot who will be forever missed.

A private service will be held at 2 pm on May 13, 2021 at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Please take a moment to offer condolences and share memories on our website.