Bowling Green Bids Farewell to a Beloved Soul
Bowling Green is coming together to honor the memory of a remarkable lady, Carolyn Smiley. The 73-year-old resident peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the Medical Center at Bowling Green, leaving a lasting impact on her community and loved ones. A treasured member of Bearwallow Baptist Church, Carolyn was known for her warm spirit and dedication to her family and friends.
Community Gatherings and Family Connections
At the heart of Carolyn’s life was her deep involvement in her church community. As a proud member of the Silver Saints, she cherished the friendships and fellowship she found at Bearwallow Baptist Church. Known for her joyful laugh and welcoming demeanor, Carolyn transformed every gathering into a delightful occasion. Good food and togetherness were staples of her life, creating memories that will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
A Love for Nature
Outside the church, Carolyn found immense joy in tending to her flower bed. She often spent sunny afternoons nurturing her plants and watching them bloom. It was more than just a hobby for Carolyn; it was a passion that brought her peace and happiness. Friends and family remember her as someone who could light up a room, not only with her smile but with her beautiful flowers that often adorned her home.
A Loving Family
Carolyn, daughter of the late Jeff Cleotus Reed and Mary Ailne Johnson Reed, is survived by her beloved husband, Larry Smiley, of Hiseville, KY, who stood by her side through life’s ups and downs. She is also remembered fondly by her granddaughter, Kya Allen, and her son-in-law, Darius Allen, both of Bowling Green. Carolyn’s life was enriched by her step-children: Laronzo Smiley (Beth) of Louisville, KY, Shawn Smiley and Tristan Smiley, both residing in Florida, and Travis Smiley from Hiseville, KY. Plus, there’s a wealth of extended family, including nieces, nephews, and her uncle, Charlie Reed.
A Legacy of Love and Remembrance
Sadly, Carolyn was preceded in death by her daughter, Katina Allen, sisters Edith Reed and Cledis Rhodes, and her brother, Rev. Carl “Dolly” Reed. Her nephew, Kevin Reed, also preceded her. These losses have left a hole in the hearts of many, as Carolyn’s love for her family knew no bounds, and she will be missed dearly.
Remembering Carolyn
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Bearwallow Baptist Church. The visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM CT on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Following the visitation, funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM CT, with Rev. K.T. Ford and Rev. Shayne Stockton officiating. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed on Brooks Funeral Home’s Facebook page, allowing friends and family from afar to join in honoring Carolyn’s incredible life.
Caring Support
Following the service, Carolyn will be laid to rest in the Bearwallow Baptist Church Cemetery. Brooks Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements, ensuring everything is carried out with the love and care that Carolyn herself exemplified in her life.
Carolyn Smiley’s spirit will always remain in the hearts of her loved ones, as they cherish the memories of her laughter, love, and dedication to her family and faith. Her legacy reminds us all to embrace those beautiful connections and live life to the fullest.
