Obituary
Nannie Carolyn Elkins, Glencoe Alabama, entered her eternal home on Friday afternoon, May 3, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and joy. She was a beacon of strength and grace and a cherished cornerstone of her family.
Born on April 5, 1943, to Tom and Nannie Gault, Carolyn brought light into the world from the moment she drew her first breath. She graduated from Alexandria High School in 1961. Throughout her life journey she touched countless lives with her warmth and kindness. As a devoted wife and mother, she lived out her Christian values daily, always looking for opportunities to help serve and encourage others. She had a servant heart and found great joy in preparing meals for friends and family.
As a grandmother, she delighted in the laughter and innocence of youth, creating wonderful memories of joy and playfulness that her grandchildren will forever hold dear. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and comfort, where love flowed freely. She was an excellent cook, and her table was always open to family and friends where she often hosted parties and holiday get-togethers.
Aside from her grandchildren, perhaps her second greatest joy was going to yard sales - and having them. Whenever her children would brag about a good deal they got at a store – she was always quick to say that she could have gotten that at a yard sale for a fraction of what was paid at the store. She loved hosting parties, especially her annual Halloween costume party. Her children often joked that she had more stamina and fun in her late 70s than they did in their 50s.
In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband of 37 years, Larry Elkins, whom she valiantly cared for during his 5-year battle with early-onset-Alzheimer’s.
Left to carry on her legacy is her daughter, Lisa (Tim) Whitten, their children Lauren (Michael) Hock, and Megan Whitten Shuler; her son Dan Elkins (Jason Price), their children Jonathan (Michelle) Elkins and Lindsey (Skyler) Gonzalez; daughter Julie (David) Blackmon, and their daughter Hannah (A.J.) Baines. She was a great-grandmother to Brooks Whitten Shuler, Harrison Hock, Mack & Emme Lou Elkins, & Vander Gonzalez. She is also survived by her brother Leon (Neva) Gault along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of wonderful caring friends.
In addition to those mentioned above, she is survived by her loving companion Bill Hardin, who so faithfully stood by her side these last few months. Papa Bill, as he is affectionately called, brought so much love and joy to Carolyn these last few years. Her children are forever grateful for his presence in Carolyn’s life, and in their family.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff/nurses at Gadsden Regional SICU, especially to nurse Justin Davis.
A celebration of Carolyn’s life will be held at Crestwood Memorial Funeral Home on May 5, 2024, at 3 pm. Visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3:00; burial will follow the service in Crestwood Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers will be David Blackmon, Jonathan Elkins, Michael Hock, A.J. Baines, Dennis Gault, and David Elkins.
The family asks that you all wear bright colors as we celebrate the wonderful person Carolyn was and the legacy that she leaves behind.
If you desire, you can make a monetary donation in Carolyn’s honor