Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Carolyn Elam Obituary
Born on July 6, 1934, in Winston-Salem, N.C., Carolyn grew up with a deep appreciation for learning and service-values that would shape her life and legacy. She pursued higher education at the University of North Carolina, where she earned her degree in English with honors. Her academic achievements reflected not only her intellect but also her lifelong love of literature and language.
Carolyn dedicated over three decades to teaching in both public and private schools. She found her greatest joy working with younger students in grades one through three, believing that early education was a critical time to make a lasting impact. Her passion for teaching touched countless lives; many of her former students still remember her as a wonderful teacher who inspired them during their formative years, helping them become the people they are today.
Beyond the classroom, Carolyn found happiness in simple pleasures-reading a good book, spending time at the family's beach house, and being surrounded by her grandchildren. These moments brought her immense joy and allowed her to share stories, laughter, and love across generations.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorthey Pfaff and Paul Welch; her husband, Ray Elam; her son, Michael Elam; and grandson, Alex Elam. Their memories remained close to Carolyn's heart throughout her life.
She is lovingly remembered by her son, Eric Elam; granddaughters, Samantha, Isabella, and Sophia; great-grandchildren, Tegan and Jenson; as well as many nieces and nephews who will continue to honor her memory.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church or Meals on Wheels of the Sandhills-organizations that reflect Carolyn's spirit of compassion and community care.
A funeral service will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, October 18, 2025, At Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church. A private burial will follow at Bethesda Cemetery.
May Carolyn Elam's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.
Online condolences may be made at www.bolesfuneralhome.com.
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home.
Memorial Events
for Carolyn Elam
Funeral services provided by:
Boles Funeral Home - Southern Pines425 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387
Memories and Condolences
for Carolyn Elam
Sponsored by Boles Funeral Home - Southern Pines.
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in Carolyn Elam's name
How to support Carolyn's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Carolyn Elam's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
