Carolyn Parson

Carolyn Carpenter Parson, age 78, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed peacefully from this earthly life into her eternal home in Heaven on Monday, May 11, 2026. Surrounded by the love of family and friends, Carolyn entered the presence of her Lord after a life marked by kindness, faith, devotion, and grace.

Born on January 10, 1948, in Little Rock, Arkansas, she was the daughter of the late Cecil Carpenter and Lola Bell Lockard Carpenter. Carolyn was a lifelong resident of Little Rock, a city she deeply loved and proudly called home throughout her life.

She graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Studies and later went on to earn her Master’s in Education. Carolyn started her career at Parkview High School teaching American history and Government. She was a devoted teacher and inspired countless students with her knowledge, kindness, and love of learning. She went on to become chairman of the Social Studies department and remained in this position until her retirement. Carolyn was a lifelong member of Emanuel Baptist Church, she dearly loved her church and cherished her Sunday School class, where she formed many lifelong treasured friendships through the years.

Carolyn met the love of her life, David Parson, in the singles Sunday School class at Emanuel Baptist Church. Their marriage was one filled with unwavering devotion, faith, and enduring love. In David’s later years, Carolyn faithfully devoted herself to his care, remaining lovingly by his side through every moment with remarkable strength, compassion, and selflessness.

Carolyn found beauty in all things. She loved painting, bird watching, antiquing, jewelry, and surrounding herself with lovely things. She was also a gifted writer and even authored a book. Above all, Carolyn dearly loved her cocker spaniels. She was never without a beloved dog by her side, and they brought her endless companionship and joy through the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil Carpenter and Lola Bell Lockard Carpenter; her brother, Cecil Don Lockard; her nephew, Stewart Carpenter; and her beloved husband, David Parson, who passed two days prior to her.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Peggy Carpenter; her stepdaughter, Tracey Welborn; and her stepson, David Parson Jr. She also leaves behind countless extended family members, along with many dear, devoted lifelong friends who were like family to her.

Carolyn will be remembered for her strong personality, unwavering devotion to those she loved, her appreciation for beauty, and the kindness she extended to everyone, fortunate enough to know her. Her love, grace, and faithful heart will be deeply missed by her family and many dear friends.

A graveside service will be held at Rest Hills Memorial Park in North Little Rock on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 2:00 in the afternoon with Dr. Rex Horn officiating.