Carolyn Jean Burk Brunk Gordon

Carolyn Jean Burk Brunk Gordon, of Waynesville, NC, age 61 passed away unexpectedly on September 21, 2026. Carolyn was born on December 11, 1964, in Silver Spring, MD, to Henry R. and Judith A. Bradley Burk. She was the co-owner of the Oak Park Inn in Waynesville, NC, for 21 years alongside her loving husband, Rick Gordon. During that time, she developed many long lasting friendships which endured these many years.

Carolyn is survived by her parents, her loving husband, Rick, her sister, Stephanie Seiger (Bill) of Laurel, MD, her brother, Rich Burk (Glenice) of Fort Mill, SC, her nieces, Brianna and Alaina and nephews, Matt and Connor, many others and a host of cousins.

Carolyn also enjoyed her "side job" as a travel planner. She planned many trips with family and friends throughout the Caribbean and overseas destinations. Organizing these events was a joy to her.

Carolyn was a member of the business community in Waynesville and served in different capacities on various committees. She loved her town and always looked forward to the many annual festivals held there each year.

Carolyn and Rick sold their business at the Oak Park Inn a few months ago and had settled in the community they loved. She busied herself with decorating and planting flowers in their new home and looked forward to retirement after dealing with the many issues of being an inn owner those many years, but on the bright side, she also treasured them because it brought so many new friends and old acquaintances into her life.

A gathering of family and friends will be held 1:30 - 2:30 pm on Saturday, September 26, at Garrett Funerals and Cremations at 460 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC.