Carolyn Isaly Crain

Carolyn Isaly Crain

Carolyn Crain, 81, of Fredericksburg passed away peacefully on Friday, May 3, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She was born in California to David Isaly and Dorothy King Isaly.

Carolyn was a graduate of Marion Harding High School (Ohio) and attended Duke University. It was at Duke that she met the love of her life, her husband Col. Richard Crain (USMC). They had two children together, David and Laura. As a proud Marine Corps family, they were stationed across the United States in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, where they settled after Richard retired. During her husband's two tours in Vietnam, Carolyn and her young children returned home to Marion to be with her mom and family.

Carolyn loved being a Marine spouse and mother. She was a Girl Scout troop leader for many years, a volunteer at schools and in her community, an avid reader, ace bridge player, adventurous cook, tennis player, and quilter. Her favorite hobby was following the stock market and quoting the Motley Fool. Nicknamed "Tarl" by her sisters, Carolyn was well known for her long hair and braided pigtails. Most of all, she was generous with her love, time, and laughter.

Carolyn's life was not without sadness. In 1985, shortly after her son David graduated from college, he became a quadriplegic from a devastating fall. With grace and acceptance, Carolyn devoted her life to supporting David to live a rich and meaningful life. David passed away at the age of 45. In 2002, after 40 years of marriage, her beloved husband Richard died at the age of 63 from the long-term effects of Agent Orange exposure.

Carolyn "Grandma Dumplin" is remembered by her grandsons for her playful spirit, sense of humor, care packages, and her home which she filled with games and fun (along with her collection of plushies, Wee Bears, a year-round Halloween tree, yard decorations, and So. Much. More.). She was very proud of her grandsons and enjoyed celebrating their milestones and accomplishments (and giving them way too much money).

Carolyn is survived by her daughter, Laura Crain (Sandra Limoge); grandchildren Gabriel and Bryan of Vermont; long-time sweetheart Rick Morris (another Rick!) of Fredericksburg; sister Mary Roberts (Gary Roberts) of California; nieces and nephews; a lovely assortment of relatives and dear friends; and caregivers at Chancellors Village (warmest thanks to Michelle).

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard and son, David whom she held close to her heart her entire life; infant brother David of Marion; and sisters Janice Isaly of Maine and Barbara Bolton of Washington.

A private service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to her favorite charity Lund Adoption and Family Services, PO Box 4009, Burlington, Vermont 05406.

Online guest book is available at covenantfuneralservice.com.