Carolyn Jane Hope

Carolyn Jane Hope, a beacon of strength, resilience, kindness, and love, departed this life on September 19, 2024, after a valiant battle with a recent illness. Born in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, on November 6, 1946, Carolyn's journey was marked by an unwavering spirit and a deep-seated passion for education and sacrificial love for her little family. She left this earth peacefully, from the arms of her daughter, into the arms of Jesus, in Dothan, Alabama. She was surrounded by the warmth of her most cherished loved ones.

Carolyn's early years in Birmingham laid the foundation for a life rich in learning and teaching. A proud 1965 graduate of Ensley High School, she carried her thirst for knowledge and determination to succeed to Jacksonville State, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education in 1968. Her commitment to education never wavered, and she furthered her academic pursuits with a master’s degree in education psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1981. Her encouragement and support of her family was equally unwavering, particularly in the realm of education, which she championed with every fiber of her being. She encouraged and supported her husband’s journey through medical school, then for her daughter’s and granddaughter’s education at Auburn University. Most recently, her support was directed toward her granddaughter through dental school and orthodontic residency program. She was immeasurably proud of all their academic achievements and was their biggest cheerleader. She was the best Wife to her Husband and the best Mama and Big Mama to her girls.

Her professional life was a testament to her dedication to shaping young minds. Carolyn's teaching career began as an elementary school teacher at Tuxedo Junction Elementary School in Birmingham, where her vibrant spirit and nurturing approach left an indelible mark on each of her students. She completed her teaching career in San Antonio, Texas, before she, her husband, and daughter, made their home in Enterprise, Alabama, in 1984. There her passion for helping others continued to ripple through the community as she used her experience as an educator selflessly serving in a volunteer program aimed at teaching adults in Coffee County how to read. Over the next 30 years she enjoyed taking care of her family while being a proud military wife.

Carolyn was a person of extraordinary strength and generosity. Her daughter, Bethany Jayne Hope (Clay) Wadsworth, was her best friend and the jewel of her life, and their bond exemplified the depth of their love for each other. They were rarely far apart. She is also survived by the absolute joys of her life, her granddaughters, Dr. Carolyn Grace Hope (Preston) Griffin and Sara Harper Pittman; and by her sisters, whom she adored, Sue Bates and Claudia Goodwin. She was preceded in death by her devoted Husband of 56 years, Dr. Jerry Wayne Hope (COL ret.), who was the absolute true love of her life. She adored him. Carolyn's heart extended beyond the confines of her home, as she was affectionately known as "Big Mama" to her family and many friends. She will be greatly missed but is rejoicing with Jesus.

Her interests painted the portrait of a woman of diverse talents and passions. She was an Auburn girl, who loved traveling, but she especially loved spending time at the beach with her family. Carolyn's voice resonated with joy as she often sang karaoke at beach hangouts with friends and family, a pastime that brought smiles and giggles to many over the years. Later in life, her self-taught fingers danced on piano keys, weaving melodies that echoed her love for music and life. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence; she was a devoted member of Harvest Church and Church of the Crossings, where her spiritual journey continued to flourish. She felt so strongly that God had so richly blessed her in her life and lived with a grateful heart.

Carolyn's smile was a source of light in any room she entered. It reflected her inner strength, faithfulness, and boundless love for others. Her happiness and gratefulness were contagious. These attributes were the pillars of her existence and resonated in the lives of those she touched. Her legacy is one of courage, a faith-filled life, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

The celebration of Carolyn Hope's life will be a testament to her radiant spirit. The service, officiated by Pastor Larry Anderson, will take place at 11 am on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Carolyn will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park, beside her beloved husband. Prior to the service, from 10-11 am, the family will welcome friends to join in honoring her remarkable journey.

Carolyn's story is not one of an end but a continuation. Her legacy of love, strength, generosity, courage, and faith will continue to guide and sustain her girls as they carry her memory within their hearts. As we bid farewell to Carolyn, let us also carry her light within each of us, ever motivated by her unwavering spirit and the profound impact of her loving heart.