FRANKLIN — Mrs. Carolyn Griffin Williams died peacefully in her home on July 13, 2017, in Franklin, Virginia, at the age of 75. 

Carolyn is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Everett Columbus Williams Jr. of Franklin; her brother, Joseph Clinton “Joe” Griffin Jr. and his wife, Carolyn; and brother Charles Howard Griffin and his wife Connie, all of Windsor. She is also survived by uncle Robert M. “Butler” Butler and his wife, Mary of Colosse; and numerous nieces and nephews. Carolyn was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Clinton “J.C.” Griffin Sr., mother Elaine Butler Griffin, and aunts Hattie G. Fitton and Violet Griffin, all of Windsor.

A native of Isle of Wight County, Carolyn was born on Feb. 20, 1942 in Windsor to J.C. and Elaine Griffin. She graduated from Windsor High School in 1960. Carolyn was married to Everett Williams on July 3, 1960, after which she followed him nationally and internationally in his Air Force and engineering career travels. 

In all of the many places that she lived, Carolyn demonstrated an ability to form deeply caring relationships with those around her, always putting others before herself. While Carolyn was known for her homemaking, decorating and cooking skills, she was better known for being able to make people feel comfortable and loved, even in difficult situations. Although she had no children of her own, Carolyn will be largely remembered as a “mom” to many.

Carolyn’s health care has been primarily located in her home, supported by the medical efforts of Heartland Hospice and many other helpers; including Cindy Smullen, who has cared for and assisted Carolyn for seven years. Other helpers included Raynette, Theresa, Debbie, Vicky, Joyce, Virginia and many others. A special note of gratitude is given to her niece, Melissa Darden, who has provided much comfort and assistance over the last few years.
Family and friends will be received for a visitation from Wednesday July 19, 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Wright Funeral Home in Franklin. A funeral service will take place at Franklin Baptist Church at 1 p.m. Thursday July 20. The burial will follow at 3 p.m. at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veteran’s Cemetery in Suffolk. In lieu of flowers, please send remembrances to the Cancer Care Foundation of Tidewater at P.O. Box 12693, Norfolk, VA, 23541.  www.wrightfuneralhome.org