Marva Barnett
I will greatly miss my Cuz, aka Carolyn! Even though we lived across the country from each other, so we didn’t see each other enough, I often think of her—and our phone conversations were a hoot! Besides, what will I do now with the insulting birthday cards that so amused my Cuz????
The aunt who was part of the crowd that Carolyn selflessly cared for was her Aunt Marva, my Mom. They became great friends decades ago, and Mom was able to stay happily in her home in great part because Carolyn brought Mom so much humor, so many fun activities, and so much support!
And I can testify to Carolyn’s entertaining personality, too! During one of my stays with Mom, it occurred to me that I hadn’t visited Hogle Zoo in years and invited my Cuz to join me. “Why the hell would I want to go to the zoo????!!!!” she exclaimed. But she agreed, and we had a super time, as Mom and I always had with Carolyn. I am inordinately grateful that my Cuz stayed connected with over decades and that she had the strength to overcome so many serious illnesses and stay with us all for so many years. May she rest in peace—when not joking with everyone she meets wherever she is! (This is a photo of us Cuzzes from my visit in 2023.)