Born on November 10th, 1947, in Milton, Florida, Carolyn graced this earth with her fun and witty spirit for 76 beautiful years, leaving behind a legacy of love that will forever be cherished.
Carolyn was the beloved daughter of the late Rufus and Jewel Lee and grew up surrounded by the love of her three siblings. She met and married the love of her life, Cecil Odom, in January of 1967. Cecil's military service took them to various places they called home, from South Carolina to Guam, Alaska, and Michigan, before they finally settled in Charlotte, North Carolina upon Cecil’s retirement, where they would welcome one daughter, Lauren, when Carolyn was 40 years old.
Carolyn’s heart was expansive, extending far beyond her immediate family. She found purpose and fulfillment in her unwavering dedication to the recovery community in Charlotte for over 37 years. Through her tireless efforts, she became a pillar of support, a guiding light for those navigating the journey to sobriety. Her circle of friends, more like to family, illuminated her life with their fellowship and the incredible memories that were made.
Carolyn spent most of her professional life pouring her passion into her work within rehabilitation facilities, dedicating herself to helping others find their path to healing and renewal. Her impact resonated deeply within the walls of The Charlotte Rescue Mission "Doves Nest," where she touched countless lives, particularly women suffering from addiction.
Beyond her selfless service, Carolyn embraced life with a loving and sassy spirit, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life such as ceramics or knitting, playing card games, cooking up a southern meal, treasure hunts at yard sales, and falling asleep to a good book. But most of all, her greatest joy in life were her two grandkids who she was so deeply proud of and played an instrumental part of their lives.
Carolyn's journey was not without its share of loss, as over the years she would lose her parents, Rufus and Jewel Lee; her brothers Marty and Jimmy Lee; and her cherished sister and closest friend, Debbie Whisnant.
Carolyn leaves behind her dedicated and doting husband of 57 years, Cecil Odom; their daughter, Lauren Lee, son-in-law Chris Lee, grandchildren Jakob and Zoe; numerous nieces and nephews; and many loved ones that she considered family.
Though Carolyn is no longer here with us, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched, the hearts she uplifted, and the souls she helped guide to healing. Her memory will forever be etched in the minds of those who had the privilege of knowing her, as she leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion and self-sacrifice. Carolyn fought the good fight, she finished the race, and she kept the faith.
Rest in eternal peace, precious Carolyn Ann.
A Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Carolyn will be Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 2:00 PM at McEwen Funeral Home - Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park Rd., Charlotte, NC 28210. A reception will follow immediately afterwards.
Online condolences may be shared at www.mcewenpinevillechapel.com
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