Carmen Darlene Haltermon

Carmen Darlene Haltermon, a beacon of love and gentleness, passed away on December 9, 2024, after an extended illness, in the warm community of Dothan, Alabama. Born in Flint, Michigan on August 11, 1928, Carmen's life was a tapestry of adventure, service, and unwavering love.

Carmen's early years in Michigan were just the beginning of an extraordinary journey that would take her to the sun-kissed shores of Naples, Florida. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ronald Haltermon. Together, they shared 48 years of marriage, filled with devotion and mutual support. The couple's adventurous spirit led them to live in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica for a period, enriching their lives with new experiences and cultures.

Professionally, Carmen made significant contributions wherever she resided. In the 1970s, she was a valued employee at the Naples Chamber of Commerce, where her work supported the growth and prosperity of the local community. Her career in real estate in Florida showcased her ability to connect with people and help them find their dream homes. Carmen continued to make her mark, working in insurance and excelling as the office manager for Dance Consultants and Ballroom Dance Studio, where her organizational skills and warm presence were greatly appreciated, and was a licensed Ham Radio Operator. Later, Carmen and Ronald moved to Cherokee County, Alabama, and then settled in Dothan for the last 15 years

Carmen's interests were as diverse as her career. She had a passion for crafts, and her love for Christmas was evident in the joy and care she put into every festive decoration and celebration. Her quiet, caring, and loving nature made her a cherished member of Evergreen Presbyterian Church, where she found a spiritual home and community.

Carmen's life was characterized by the attributes that best described her: loving, gentle, and adventurous. She approached life's challenges with grace and always had a kind word and a smile for those she met. Her gentle demeanor belied a strength and resilience that inspired all who knew her.

A celebration of Carmen's extraordinary life will be held at Evergreen Presbyterian Church at 2 pm on Friday, December 13, 2024, with Rev. James McTyre officiating. Before the service, from 1-2 pm, the family will receive friends at the church, sharing memories and the warmth of Carmen's enduring spirit.

Carmen is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald Haltermon, and a host of friends and family members whose lives she touched profoundly. Her legacy is one of love, friendship, and the quiet power of a life well-lived. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

A proud mother, Carmen was blessed with a large and loving family. Her children and their spouses, Gregory Allen Dent of Grand Blanc, Michigan; Dennis Eugene and Alice Dent of Naples, Florida; Philip Douglas and Kelley Dent of Lehigh Acres, Florida; Michael David and Teresa Dent of Naples, Florida; Deborah Sue Miller of Fort Myers, Florida; Vickie Marie and Rick Blanchard of Hot Springs, Arkansas; Sandra Kaye and Mark Wolfenden of Burton, Michigan; and Kelly Anne and Larry Drawdy of Acworth, Georgia, all carry forward her nurturing spirit and the values she instilled in them.

Carmen's role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply. Her grandchildren, Nicholas Dent; Preston and Brandy Hadley; Christopher Dent; Michelle and Charles Kephart; Philip Thomas Dent; Keri and Benjamin Bicknell; Jennifer and Stephen Ley; Michael David, Jr. and Meghan Dent; Morgan and Mark Kelley; Whitney and Stephen Hansman; Matthew and Erika Gillies; Lindsay Gillies; Emily and Max Frederick; Paul Wolfenden; Kailyn Drawdy; Jonathan Drawdy; and Olivia Drawdy, were the recipients of her boundless love, her stories, and her famous home-cooked meals that brought the family together.

The circle of joy was further extended with the arrival of her great-grandchildren, Marissa Dent, Charlotte Gillies, Jackson Gillies, Joey Hadley, Cloey Hadley, Sullivan Hansman, and Cameron Kephart. Each of them was a sparkle in Carmen's eye, and she reveled in their accomplishments and milestones, big and small.

Her journey on this earth may have come to a close, but the impact of Carmen Darlene Haltermon’s kind, adventurous soul will continue to ripple through the lives of many, just as the gentle waves embrace the shores she once loved. Carmen's life was a testament to the beauty that can be created when one leads with love and a spirit of adventure.