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Carolyn Oliver-Wilkins,

Posted By Chapel Of Peace Team On October 17, 2021 @ 9:48 pm In Obituaries,Columbus Obituaries | 23 Comments

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Carolyn was born in Granville, Ohio on April 24, 1935 as one of eleven children to the late Lillie Mae (McMillan) and Rev. Augustus “Gus” G. Oliver. Carolyn passed away unexpectedly at her home on March 18, 2020. She was the proud mother of 6 sons and 16 grandchildren.

A longtime resident of Newark, Carolyn worked periodically as a caregiver and domestic for several families and later joined the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) serving a 3 year enlistment. Academically gifted, she would later attend the OSU Newark Branch earning her high school diploma and AA/LPN degree in nursing. She retired from a career in nursing at Licking Memorial Hospital. She was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church as a youth and Blessed Sacrament Church as an adult.

As a single mom, she worked diligently, saved, and purchased a house that became a home filled with family, friends, love, joy, good food, a lot of music and the never-ending sounds of 6 boys being well-schooled and groomed into men. Her life’s passion centered around a busy life of caring for family, friends, and co-workers.

Carolyn loved dogs with her favorite breed being Collies. She adopted 3 collies into her family over the years; border collies Shawn, Willie, Major and a sheltie named Oliver.

She was an eloquent speaker and an avid reader who compiled an extensive personal library of books, periodicals, dictionaries, and encyclopedias over the years. She also loved all types of music and assembled a large vinyl record collection spanning some of the greatest artists of the 60’s to 80’s from around the globe. She was known for her sense of humor and quick wit. She stayed current and active during the Civil Rights Era and beyond, discussing the politics of the Kennedys, Dr. King, the military, and other current events around the globe.

She also enjoyed taking her sons on drives in the family station wagon to visit family in other states, museums, historical places, recreational parks, amusement parks, zoos, symphonies, and rock concerts, attending the annual state fair, fall pumpkin festivals and more.

A very classy, glamourous, and stylish woman, Carolyn was recognized as one of the best-dressed nurses at Licking Memorial Hospital and always turned out in high style for public events with her boys who were dressed in coat and tie. She loved works of art and fine craftsmanship, and she amassed an impressive collection of rare Lladro porcelains, German Hummel figurines, Longaberger baskets and Heisey glassware.

Carolyn also enjoyed watching sports, especially the Cleveland Browns, OSU Buckeyes and her favorite Dallas Cowboys.

She is survived by her siblings Gloria, Willa, General Grant and Laura, her sons William Oliver, Frederick (Katherine) Wilkins, Colonel (USA ret.) Ed D. Stephen (Mayra) Wilkins, Lieutenant Colonel (USA ret.) David (Darolyn) Wilkins, Christopher Wilkins, Master Sergeant (USA ret) Xenophen (Mercy) Wilkins, Daughter-in-Love Pia Strong, 15 grandchildren and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Carolyn was preceded in passing by her parents, husband Wesley, and siblings Julius, Joseph, Walter, Jesse, James, and Jacob and her beloved grandson Aaron.

 

 

 

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Private Visitation 11:00 AM and Private Memorial Service 12:00 PM Saturday, November 6, 2021 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd). Inurnment at Maple Grove Cemetery 350 Maple St. Granville, Oh 43023.

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Condolences for the family of “Carolyn Oliver-Wilkins,”

Condolence from David Wilkins on October 21st, 2021 4:57 pm

Dear Mom,

I know you are in a better place where your spirt and soul are at peace and in a heavenly space not bound by the suffering of man. I thank you everyday for all you have given me to be what I am today. Rest in the comfort of the Lord and be thou at peace.

With love and admiration,
David

Condolence from Karen Ghiloni Hughes on October 26th, 2021 9:21 am

‘He will wipe away every tear from their eyes’ Rest In Peace Mrs Wilkins Love to all of the family.
Karen

Condolence from Carla Oliver on October 26th, 2021 9:32 am

REST IN PEACE DEAR AUNTIE

Condolence from Mary Thomas on October 26th, 2021 9:45 am

To the Wilkins and Oliver Family,

Our families have been linked for multiple generations. Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Aunt Carolyn is thought of often and with such fond regard. The wonderful memories that I have of her for my whole life I will cherish forever. To you my extended big brothers I love you and you are always in my thoughts and prayers!

Love,
“Ellie Mae”

Condolence from JenDina Bowers (Strong) on October 26th, 2021 8:12 pm

It’s been over a year since I’ve heard your voice, seen your face, or held your hand… though this may seem like your goodbye, I look forward to reminiscing about how beautiful inside and out you truly were in this ceremony.

Condolence from Mickey on October 26th, 2021 10:47 pm

A joy to know you ❤️

Condolence from Stephen on October 27th, 2021 1:36 pm

Hi Mom,
You are our lioness – a pillar of love, honor and respect. Thank you for all your motherhood to takes us on the journey from babies to men. You gave us your all all and molded us to become a caring and committed family of brothers and mom. You are an example of grace and dignity, of perseverance and purpose, of counsel and wisdom. Thank you for helping me become the man I am today. I celebrate you as you walk in God’s place of everlasting joy.
Love,
Stevie

Condolence from Susan Leaver Buck on November 3rd, 2021 12:11 pm

Carolyn has a special place in my heart. In spite of her surroundings she remained ladylike, kind, courteous and always displayed a touch of glass. I trusted her and knew she would perform beyond anything that was expected of her. I remained in touch with her after I retired and had occasion to see her prior to her leaving Marysville. She greeted me with a hug and tears of happiness to see me. She is missed and I pray she has been resting peacefully. God bless all of her sons. Her PRIDE and JOY!! It’s all she talked about she loved them all so much ❤️ My life is better for having known her.

Susan Leaver Buck
ORW Correction Specialist (retired)

Condolence from Family of Ken & Rebecca Black on November 3rd, 2021 3:26 pm

To the Wilkins/Oliver Family, Sending our love, comfort, adoration & prayers to each one of you grieve the loss of your wonderful Mother. Aunt Carolyn was tough but caring and she loved her sons dearly. Thank you for sharing her with us as she will forever be in our hearts. God bless each & everyone and know that the family of the Kenny Black (deceased)& Rebecca Black have you in our thoughts & prayers. Job well done Carolyn may you forever smile on God’s heavenly lawn.

Condolence from Trudie Dishon on November 4th, 2021 12:04 pm

We are so sorry for the loss of your Mother – praying for you all during this time.
Scott and Trudie (Palmer) Dishon and Tom Glancy

Condolence from Teresa Moore on November 4th, 2021 12:32 pm

Dear David and family,
Holding you and your family in my heart and warm thoughts. I will always remember your Mother as a strong, beautiful woman. Now she is truly free.

Teresa(Oberfield) Moore
BSS/NC ‘78

Condolence from EABailey on November 5th, 2021 11:07 am

Carolyn,
May your mind and soul finally be at peace as you rest in the loving arms of Christ.
a friend.

Condolence from The Madan Family on November 5th, 2021 1:54 pm

Dear Aunt Carolyn,
I will always have very fond memories of us celebrating David’s graduation from USF. You are missed.
Rest In Eternal Peace
Love,
Vijay, Yolanda, Victoria, & Olivia Madan

Condolence from Willa Oliver on November 5th, 2021 2:27 pm

Dear Carolyn,
Thank you for your caring and love throughout the years. I missed talking to you but I know someday we will pick up where we left off.
Rest in Peace
Love,
Your Sister Willa

Condolence from Gloria Lee on November 5th, 2021 2:30 pm

Dear Carolyn,
I loved you very very much and we had good times together. I miss you.
Love Gloria

Condolence from Andre Oliver on November 6th, 2021 7:22 am

My dear Aunt Caroline,

Sitting in the back of my dad’s VW Beetle as he drove our family to Newark to see you and the boys every summer is one of my fondest memories. You nurtured me like a son, and your boys became my brothers. Words can’t capture the depth of love and respect I have for you, and I’m comforted that you’re in a better place today. Would you give Jesse a kiss for me, Joan and Cathy? We love and miss you both dearly. Love, Andre

Condolence from Lee Mathews on November 6th, 2021 7:48 am

To the Wilkins and Oliver family my deepest condolences and may she Rest In Peace.

Condolence from Darlene Price on November 6th, 2021 8:15 am

Fond memories of Aunt Carolyn will always be heartfelt.

Condolence from Mark Kirk on November 6th, 2021 8:40 am

Chris and the Wilkins family
I am sorry to hear about your loss .Chris your mother sounds like she was a special lady.

Mark Kirk

Condolence from Stephen Wilkins (father and son of Carolyn)) on November 9th, 2021 7:27 pm

Jasmine made a playlist for Grandma Carolyn that aired on WXDU
https://wxdu.org/plmanager/world/printplaylist.php?show_id=59294
“Navel-Gazing Power Hour” with Danone Danette (archive)
Tuesday, November 9, 2021 | 18:00 to 19:00 | Playlist

Artist Song Album Label
* James Brown The Payback The Payback Polydor
* Father’s Children Everybody’s Got A Problem Who’s Gonna Save The World Numero Group
* Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings She Ain’t A Child No More I Learned The Hard Way Daptone
* Miles Davis Black Satin On The Corner Columbia
* Betty Davis Ooh Yeah Betty Davis/They Say I’m Different Light In The Attic
* Sandra Phillips Please Don’t Send Him Back To Me Too Many People In One Bed (Remastered) Alive
* Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens Sinner Cold World Daptone
* Willie Wright Nantucket Island Telling The Truth Numero Group
* Nina Simone I Sing Just To Know That I’m Alive Fodder on My Wings Verve
* Mary D. Williams Woke Up This Morning Blood Done Sign My Name self-released
* The Upsetters Dub From Africa Blackboard Jungle Dub Abraham/Clocktower
* Tim Maia O Caminho Do Bem World Psychedelic Classics 4: Nobody Can Live Forever: The Existential Soul of Tim Maia Luaka Bop
* Joey Pastrana And His Orchestra Afro Azul Latin Soul: New York Barrio Grooves 1966-1972 Nascente
* Sorry Bamba Yayoroba Volume One 1970-1979 Thrill Jockey

Condolence from Karen Selby on November 13th, 2021 7:30 pm

I’m so sorry about Carolyns passing. We are friends with her son,Chris,considering him one of our own! I never met Carolyn in person,but our “pen pal” relationship was sweet! RIP away from this earth,Carolyn..I know Chris misses you terribly!

Condolence from Jan Norris on November 16th, 2021 3:18 pm

God led me to Carolyn’s Obituary today and I am so thankful. Carolyn became a special friend when we started COTC together and spent long hours around the table working to get through anatomy and physiology. She lovingly helped me navigate night shift at LMH in CCU when I joined her there after graduation.
Carolyn’s love of family extended beyond her six sons to make those of us who could only claim to be friends feel a part of her family. She even included my daughters in an outing with Christopher and Ricky when I could not attend.
Unfortunately we lost touch when I moved from the area, but she has continued to be frequently in my thoughts and prayers, especially during the dark days she endured. I want to join with all of you as you celebrate and remember your mom for the wonderful, strong, loving person I have always admired.

Condolence from Wyndi McDonald on November 20th, 2023 6:16 pm

Iam so sorry I am just now finding out Ms.Wilkins has passed! I loved her very much! I met her and immediately knew she was an amazing woman! She told me stories of her time serving our country in the Amed Forces! If I’d known she passed I would have been there! She meant the world to me!

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