Tributes

Carolyn Sylvia Rogers, 84, of Huntersville, NC, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025. She was born on January 17, 1941, in Carrollton, Georgia, to the late Silas and Lucy Belle Earnest. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband and partner in life, Donald Rogers. Carolyn was a person of many gifts-smart, passionate, and endlessly creative. She lit up every room she entered with her radiant smile and infectious laugh. Fiercely devoted to her family, she also cherished the lifelong friendships she cultivated around the world. A natural artist, Carolyn expressed her creativity in countless ways. With remarkable skill as a seamstress, she could fashion outfits with just a sewing machine and a vision. She created intricate knitted designs-sweaters, scarves, purses, and more-and her talents extended to painting, with a special love for the folk-art tradition of Bauernmalerei. She was also a wonderful cook, delighting family and friends with her meals made with love. After earning her degree in education from Auburn University, Carolyn began teaching science and home economics in Columbus, Georgia. Not long after, her adventurous spirit carried her across the globe when she joined the Department of Defense Dependents Schools, accepting a teaching position in Okinawa. It was there she met Donald, the man who would become her husband and life companion. Together they embraced a life of exploration and service through education. In the late 1960s, Carolyn and Don relocated to Germany, where they both thrived as teachers for more than 36 years. Their time overseas was filled with rich experiences, extensive travel throughout Europe, enduring friendships, and the joy of welcoming their daughter, Jennifer. Carolyn and Don remained in Germany until their retirement in 2002, when they settled in Huntersville, North Carolina to be closer to family. Though a dedicated and inspiring teacher, Carolyn's proudest roles were those of mother and grandmother. She adored her daughter and treasured every moment with her two grandchildren. Retirement opened new chapters for Carolyn. She joined The Lucky Stars, a senior line dancing troupe that went on to win numerous awards and gold medals. She rekindled her love of knitting, becoming active in local knitting circles, and enjoyed the cultural richness of Charlotte's symphony and theater alongside Don. Together, they also deepened their faith as active members of St. Patrick's Episcopal Church in Mooresville. Those left to cherish Carolyn's memory include her loving daughter, Jennifer Marshall, and son-in-law, Enrico; her sisters, Dorothy Earnest and Lynda Fanning; and her beloved grandchildren, Olivia and Benjamin Marshall. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, 164 Fairview Road, Mooresville, NC 28117. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Carolyn's St. Patrick's Church family and her friends near and far for the love, care, and friendship they showed her throughout her life. She loved you deeply, and her family loves you in return. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, is proudly serving the Rogers family. Condolences may be shared at www.cavin-cook.com.

Tributes

Carolyn Sylvia Rogers

January 17, 1941 - August 15, 2025