Carolyn Lockhart Willis

Carolyn Lockhart Willis, born on April 26, 1939, in Worth County, Georgia, peacefully passed away on January 31 2024, at Tift Regional Medical Center. She was a dedicated mother, doting grandmother, and adoring great-grandmother. Known for her warm heart and gentle spirit.

In her early years, Carolyn enjoyed playing basketball at school. As she grew older and started her own family, she made the selfless decision to work in the school lunchroom while her daughter was in school so she could stay at home with her during the summer. This display of love and commitment set the foundation for the strong bond they shared throughout their lives.

Carolyn lived a life filled with simple pleasures that brought her great joy. Reminiscing about her days growing up on the farm with her sisters always brought a smile to Carolyn's face. She adored spending time with her only granddaughter Tiffany, taking her to school and entertaining her after school. But it was her only great-grandson who held a special place in her heart. He was truly the love of Carolyn's life.

Among Carolyn's many passions were decorating her yard for each season, especially during Christmas when she would transform her home into a twinkling wonderland. Her creativity and attention to detail were admired by all who passed by. She even made the WALB News for it.

Carolyn also found solace in tending to her lawn and flower beds. She took pride in mowing the grass herself and maintaining vibrant blooms that added beauty to her surroundings. These simple hobbies allowed Carolyn to find peace and connect with nature.

Aside from nurturing her loved ones and pursuing hobbies that brought her fulfillment, Carolyn found comfort in attending First Baptist Church of TyTy where she was a member. It was there that she found a sense of community and shared her faith with others. Carolyn's commitment to her church family was a testament to her strong values and unwavering belief in the power of faith.

Carolyn Lockhart Willis will be deeply missed by those who had the honor of knowing her. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Tanner of TyTy, whom she loved unconditionally and supported throughout every step of life's journey. Her granddaughter Tiffany and Bernand Ball, along with Carolyn's great-grandchildren Harlon, Camden, Kennedy, and Harper Ball.

In addition to her immediate family, Carolyn is survived by her sisters Gay Lang, Charlene Sanders, and Robbie Tippens. Their shared memories and lifelong bond brought immeasurable joy to Carolyn's life. She also leaves behind two sisters-in-law, Charlotte Lockhart and Bonnie Lockhart.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willard C. Willis, who passed away on September 25, 2009. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law Vernon Tanner, as well as her father William Clarence Lockhart and mother Velma Iona Graham Lockhart, her three brothers, Grady Lockhart, Danny Lockhart and Kenneth Lockhart and three sisters Louise Waldrop, Dot Baxter and Amy Kendrick.                                        

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at TyTy Baptist Church with Rev. John Smith officiating. A eulogy will be given by Barol Bailey. Interment will follow at Tift Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Carrol Cannon, Patrick Cannon, David Gibbs, Tommy Bailey, Wayne Markham and Joel Griffin will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to thank the following caretakers for their kindness during her illness, Jackie Manuel and Carolyn Hill.