Carolyn Allan Bullard

She was predeceased by her parents Edward and Tressa Garner, sisters, Faye Garner Gardner (Bob), Barbara Garner Orr (Herb) and her brother Buddy Garner.

Carolyn graduated from Ensley High School in 1955. She attended the University of Alabama in Birmingham before entering the work force at US Steel and later Vulcan Materials. She then worked for many years as executive assistant to Dr. John Kirklin at University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB). She later moved to Brookwood Hospital as Director of Medical Staff Affairs and then as Director of the Construction and Leasing Division until retirement after 25 years.

She is survived by her husband, Walter M. Bullard, Jr. They maintained dual residency in Vestavia Hills, AL and Wilmington, NC and were blessed with 36 years of love and adventures. Additionally, she is survived by her daughters, Tracey Prichard (Mike), Kristi Penuel (Chuck) both from Vestavia Hills, AL, stepdaughter Kelli Dunn (David), of Louisville, KY, stepson Michael Bullard (Meabh) of Murfreesboro, TN. Grandchildren Trace Sexton, Kristopher Sexton, Alex Shapley (Joe), Andrew Gwaltney (Virginia), Ellis Penuel, Evelyn Dunn and Michael Dunn and many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

A longtime member of Vestavia Methodist Church, she sincerely loved her church and the friendships she made over her 50 years of membership. She served in many capacities including youth ministry, leading ASP trips, as wedding director and serving on various committees and boards. She especially loved helping with the establishment of the ministry related to “A Baby’s Place” for HIV infected babies. She lived out her faith daily imparting it to her daughters and grandchildren.

Carolyn had an incredible, warm smile that melted you every time you saw her. She was genuine, sweet, kind, caring, considerate and loving. She always asked how you were doing, She just made you feel special – a true Southern Lady. She was also a true patriot, loving the USA and the liberties and freedom it represents. She was a lifelong fan of Auburn University attending games and tailgates for many years. Carolyn was a loving wife and mother who always put her family first. She will always be remembered as a strong woman who loved and served her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and fiercely loyal to her family and friends.

The family appreciates the great care and kindness of James Williams, MD, the staff at Infinity Hospice and caregivers, Judy, Pat and Cynthia.

A private graveside burial service will be held at Alabama National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at Vestavia Hills Methodist Church on Wednesday January 22nd. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM with a service to follow at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Vestavia Methodist Church or to the charity of your choice.