Carolyn Diane Hanks Aldridge

Carolyn Diane Hanks Aldridge, age 79, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed peacefully in her home on June 8, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on February 6, 1947, in Richmond, Virginia, she lived a life defined by devotion to her family and her faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George Edward Hanks Jr. and Daisy Mae Buck Hanks, and sister Linda Hanks Threadgill. She is survived by her three children, Jerry Wayne “Jay” Aldridge Jr., Kimberly Aldridge Tarquine and husband David, and Amy Massey Aldridge. She is also survived by her grandson, Christian Ruedy Aldridge and wife Joanna Izaguirre; her sister, Sharon Hanks Powell and husband Gary; as well as nieces, cousins, and extended family.

After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond, she began her life as a homemaker, a role she cherished. She loved taking her children to swim practice, dance lessons, orchestra rehearsals, and their many other activities. She was also active in the community, serving on the Altar Guild of Trinity Episcopal Church in Fredericksburg and volunteering at Mary Washington Hospital.

Carolyn lived with style, grace, and an incredible sense of humor. She was always impeccably dressed and never left the house without her hair and makeup done. Among her many interests, she loved the performing arts, traveling the world on cruises, and dancing to her favorite music. She was perhaps most in her element at Christmastime when she gave generously and prepared a holiday feast for her family, always featuring her signature country ham.

The family will receive friends for visitation at Woody Funeral Home, 1771 North Parham Road, Richmond, on Wednesday, June 17 from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm. A graveside service will immediately follow at 2:00 pm at Westhampton Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a charitable organization of your choice in Carolyn’s memory.