Carolyn M. Jolley

Carolyn M. Jolley, 80, a resident of Columbus, passed from this life at her home in Columbus November 4, 2025. Born on January 4, 1945, in Franklin, Indiana, Carolyn was the loving daughter of Clifford Nelson French and Mary Magdeline Harris French.

Carolyn was a United States Army veteran serving as an accountant and she was classified as a sharpshooter. Carolyn's professional journey was marked by an impressive 30-year tenure as an accountant associate analyst at Cummins Engine Company, where she not only excelled in her role but also served as the OCU union representative. Her work ethic and commitment to her colleagues were evident in her steadfast representation and advocacy. Prior to her esteemed career at Cummins, Carolyn showcased her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit as a licensed beautician and bartender, roles in which she brought joy and camaraderie to her many patrons.

Her involvement in religious communities was a cornerstone of Carolyn's life. She was a former member of the Second Baptist Church in Columbus, where she diligently served as the church clerk and secretary. Carolyn's faith led her to the Second Missionary Baptist Church in Franklin, where she continued her service to God as a missionary, usher, deaconess, and church secretary and treasurer. Her devotion to these congregations was a testament to her deep faith and her belief in serving others.

Carolyn was an exceptional athlete, known for her prowess on the softball field playing shortstop and second base. Her love for sports also included volleyball, bowling, and skating. Off the field, Carolyn was always ready for a lively game of cards, a pastime that brought laughter and joy to her family and friends.

A committed member of the NAACP in Columbus, Carolyn's advocacy for civil rights and social justice was unwavering. Her efforts to promote equality and fairness in her community were driven by a deep-seated belief in the inherent dignity of every individual.

Carolyn will be remembered by her son, James A. (LaSonya) Jolley Jr. of Columbus; grandchildren, Nathan (Emily) Miller, Keyera Jolley and Daveed Jolley; step-grandchildren, Shaniqua Rhodes, Asia Rhodes, , Donna Rhodes and Elise Rhodes; great-grandchildren, Aiden Miller, Mira Miller, Kylani Miller, Aniyah Goines, Imoni Rhodes, Skylar Flagg and Zariyah Rhodes; siblings, Pastor Irvin (Deborah) French, Tina (Charles) Boddie, F. Darnell (Gwen) French and Kathy (Daniel) Gillies; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Mary Clarastine Sherman, D. Charlene Bellamy, Clifford Nelson French and Ernest French; and a great-grandson, DeVonte Rhodes.

The funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home on Washington Street; Pastors Douglas Gray and Larry Rowe will officiate. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time Saturday. Entombment will be at Garland Brook Mausoleum with full military honors by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family and video tribute may be viewed at barkesweaverglick.com.