Carolyn Marie Williams (Silva)

Carolyn Marie Williams (Silva) was born in San Luis Obispo, CA on April 10th, 1951 to James and Ellen (Silveira) Silva, and brother Robert Silva. She is survived by her brother, two children, Ellen and Andy Williams, daughter-in-law Sara, and two beloved grandchildren, Melody and Henry. Carolyn’s family around the California central coast is far-reaching and she leaves behind many cousins and loved ones who remember her fondly; including her sister-in-law Cathy, niece and godson Christine McKinney and Anthony Silva.

Carolyn spent her childhood running around with cousins, visiting the beach, and singing with her brother’s bands. Her deep love of both music and family shaped her life.

She graduated from San Luis Obispo High in 1969 and sang in the Carousels music program, fostering friendships that would last throughout her life. When reading Carolyn’s yearbook autographs, it’s obvious that everyone agreed that she was the sweetest and most talented friend they had. She was going places, for sure. First, to Cal Poly in SLO, then to the Bay Area to attend (then) Cal State Hayward to continue her music education. She was passionate about and studied biological science, particularly fascinated by the ocean and its mysteries. She shared her love of the ocean with her children, and all those close to her.

Carolyn taught music before marrying and starting a family with Stan Williams. After separation in the early nineties, she went back to teaching choral music to hundreds of classes in the San Ramon Valley and St. Philip Neri Catholic School before retiring in 2018. Cards from students over the years line the drawers of her desk at home, thanking her for giving them confidence, introducing them to their love of music, sharing her passion, and encouraging them in and out of the classroom.

In September of 1988, Carolyn walked into a choir practice at St. Joan of Arc, and dedicated herself to the St. Joan’s community for almost twenty five years, eventually stepping into a choir director role along the way. Countless weddings, funerals, masses, and services heard the comfort of Carolyn’s voice. She wrote, “Music is a ministry. It’s what we do.” Relationships born of this connection carried her through the end of her life.

It’s impossible to write about Carolyn’s life without mentioning the many musicians and singers who worked alongside her over the years. Starting with her brother, she found joy and satisfaction in collaborating and performing with others. From bars to churches, Elk’s lodges and school multi-purpose rooms, her light shined brightest when singing. Despite being an extremely strong soloist, she was also a generous ally to have in a group. If she saw someone struggling in her section, she would plant herself next to them to help them not only with performance, but also to enjoy the music; kindness and selflessness woven into her craft. She sang in the Blackhawk Chorus (also leading for a time) and vocal jazz group Special Blend. Again, here she forged deep friendships where a shared love of music led them all over the world.

Carolyn passed away the evening of the full moon on September 7th, 2025 in San Ramon, California, witnessed and loved by her children. In the time leading up to her passing, she was surrounded by friends and family and music, and laughter. Carolyn loved to laugh.

The family would like to express their sincerest, most heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for the support and care provided by the folks at Hospice of the East Bay. The presence, compassion, and generosity of spirit offered by these people during such a tender and daunting time will never be forgotten.

If desired and able: In Carolyn’s memory, we invite our community to support Hospice of the East Bay or The Blackhawk Chorus Music Education Fund.