March 10, 2025, 81, Goldsboro —
Carolyn Wooten Thornton, 81, peacefully passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by her family. Born in Wayne County on December 5, 1943, she was the daughter of the late James Edward and Ida Lee Pope Wooten.
In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her sister, Renette Dupree.
Carolyn is survived by her husband of 46 years, Preston Thornton; daughters, Paige Thornton Adams (Brian), Keri Thornton Currin (A.P.), and Kristi Thornton Cook (Corey); grandchildren, Kalyn Lewis, Addison Lewis Everard (Dave), Lil A.P. Currin, Jaxon Currin, Marley Currin, Avett James Currin, and Preslee Cook; great-grandchild, Odin Everard; brother, Jimmy Wooten (Brenda); and several nieces and nephews.
Carolyn was a woman of grace, kindness, and unwavering faith, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A devoted member of Eureka Christian Church, Carolyn found great joy in worship and fellowship with her church family. She was a talented vocalist whose beautiful voice filled the church with warmth and spirit as she sang in the choir. Her love for music was a reflection of her generous heart—always sharing her gifts to uplift others.
Carolyn cherished time spent with her family, especially during summers at White Lake, where laughter and love created memories that will be treasured forever. Her affectionate nature and giving spirit touched everyone she met, and she never hesitated to extend a helping hand or a comforting word.
A service to celebrate Carolyn’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025 in the sanctuary of Eureka Christian Church with Rev. Frank Purvis and Rev. Todd Massey officiating. Interment will follow at the Grady-Thornton Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025 at Seymour Funeral Home and at other times at the home.
The family would like to express their warm appreciation to Ms. Flo Chambers for her continued care during Carolyn’s hard fought battle with Alzheimer’s; and their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Kitty Askins Hospice Center for their love and care in her final days.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be directed to the Carlisle Purvis Scholarship Fund at Eureka Christian Church, 2036 Dobbersville Road, Mount Olive, NC 28365.
