January 12, 2026, 63, LaGrange – Following a valiant fight and filled with a faith just as fierce, Carolyn Joyce Bias, 63, exchanged the suffering of this world for the embrace of her Savior on Monday, January 12, 2026. The baby girl of her parents, John William and Eris Rouse Bias, Carolyn was the first baby born in Orleans County, New York, in the new year on January 1, 1963. In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her brother, Donald Bias; and her faithful cat, Diesel.
A member of Wheat Swamp Christian Church, Carolyn was surrounded in her last days by the love of family, the presence of her pastor, and the prayers of many throughout the country.
Teaching phlebotomy for many years, Carolyn went on to serve as a dedicated employee of LabCorp for over thirty-six years, where she spent the last twenty years as a courier. An excellent cook and crochet enthusiast, Carolyn blessed friends and family with dishes from her kitchen and handcrafted crocheted items. As she prepared for the arrival of her soon-to-be great-nephew, Carolyn spent many hours making blankets to welcome him into the world.
In accordance with Carolyn’s wishes, the family will honor her life privately. Friends are welcome to visit the family at the home of her sister, Karen Barrow.
Left to cherish Carolyn’s memory and spunky demeanor are her siblings, William Bias and wife Linda, Brenda Donald and husband, Bill, and Karen Barrow and husband, Keith; aunt, Lucille Jarvis; uncle, Gary Rouse; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was looking forward to the birth of her miracle great-nephew, Sawyer Grant Whitley, in April.
The family would like to thank the ECU Medical Center Trauma Team, as well as the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Surgical ICU. There could not have been a more dedicated group of individuals to care for Carolyn. Additional gratitude is extended to her pastor, Hank Jarman; the Wheat Swamp Christian Church family; and the many others who supported Carolyn and her family during this difficult time. Her LabCorp family remained a constant source of support throughout her journey and will never be forgotten.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions in Carolyn’s memory to Wheat Swamp Christian Church, 3732 Wheat Swamp Road, La Grange, NC 28551; to your local SPCA; or to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
