Carolyn Louise Erickson Shackelford's Obituary
Carolyn Louise Erickson Shackelford passed away peacefully on 14 December 2024 in her Holladay, Utah home. Carolyn was born on a beautiful spring day, 17 May 1947 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Erick Edwin Erickson Jr. and Louise Livingston Erickson. She was adored as the oldest of six children and the very first grandchild. Carolyn lived most of her school years in Arlington, Virginia and she graduated from Yorktown High School, before returning to Utah to attend Brigham Young University. There, she earned a bachelor’s degree in music education, with the violin as her primary instrument – an instrument her father also played.
Her professional journey was dedicated to education. Carolyn taught school in Everett, Washington, and Salt Lake City, inspiring countless students with her passion for music and learning. However, when she became a mother, Carolyn chose to leave the classroom to devote herself to raising her children. In doing so, she became deeply involved in their lives, supporting them in their many activities, including music, drama, scouting, sports, and volunteering with the PTA.
Carolyn was a woman of strong convictions. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served a mission in São Paulo, Brazil, from 1971 to 1973. Her faith was central to her life, and she loved engaging in thoughtful discussions about scripture, religion, and relationships. She was an active member of the Church, and her deep spirituality was a guiding force for those around her.
Throughout her life, Carolyn remained passionate about music. She played both violin and viola with the Murray Symphony, where she also served on the board. She had an eye for design, which she honed while working at Kinko’s and later applied to creating newsletters, flyers, and other materials for her various community involvements. One of her most fulfilling roles was at Remember When Video Productions, where she helped preserve precious family memories for others. Carolyn’s creativity extended to crafting, tole painting, and sewing, and she found joy in creating beauty in all she touched.
Carolyn fell in love with family history and documented and preserved pictures and memories of her childhood and family, as well as helping others do the same. She was active in the DUP (Daughters of the Utah Pioneers). She volunteered at a retirement community near her home and brought so much joy to them.
Carolyn loved her two boys and ADORED her two grandchildren. She enjoyed baking and frosting cookies with them, sitting and reading with them, and always found ways to teach them music. She is survived by her loving husband, Phillip Ray Shackelford and their two sons John (Rachel) and David (Celia); and her two grandchildren Charles and Eliza. She is also survived by her five siblings, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were all enriched by her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love. Carolyn’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire and uplift those whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who carry it in their hearts. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, 20 December 2024 at the LDS church at 2080 E. 5165 S., Holladay, UT.
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