Carolyn Faye Perkins

Carolyn Faye Perkins, born on August 6, 1950, in Cherokee, Alabama, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Carolyn was a woman who embraced life with a heart of gold and a spirit that touched the lives of everyone she met.

Carolyn dedicated a decade of her career as a cook at Bryant Elementary, where she nourished the bodies and souls of children with her culinary talents. Her passion for creativity extended beyond the kitchen, as she was also a licensed beautician, leading to many cherished and memorable kitchen haircuts and perms. In her later years, Carolyn devoted her time to caring for ailing loved ones, showcasing her boundless love and compassion.

Family was at the center of Carolyn's world. She had a unique gift for making everyone feel special, known for spoiling her loved ones, especially her cherished grandchildren. If there was a dish that held a special place in their hearts, Carolyn made it a point to prepare it every time they visited, ensuring meals were filled with warmth and love. Alongside her culinary prowess, she had a passion for gardening and crafting, often seen feeding and admiring the birds around her home, with a particular fondness for hummingbirds. Her homemade jelly, lovingly delivered to those who requested it, and the quilts she stitched with love for each of her children and grandchildren when they were born, are treasured reminders of her kind and nurturing spirit.

Her personality was marked by incredible kindness and the ability to welcome anyone into her heart. Carolyn never met a stranger, always making others feel at home and valued. Behind her sweet demeanor was a fierce protector; she would stand fiercely by her family, ensuring they knew they were loved and defended.

Carolyn is survived by her devoted husband of 39 years, Cloys Perkins; her children Paul (Traci) Hackler, Shane (Stacey) Hackler, Shelley (Terry) Whitmire, Randy Perkins, Andy (Heather) Perkins; and her beloved grandchildren: Charlie Carlile, Jamie Mansfield, Brandon (Chantel) Blain, Reagan (Johnny) Zimmer, Kayla (Zachary) Womack, Gracie (Luke) Williams, Michael Hackler, Ethan Hackler, Evan Hackler, Dominic Perkins, Emilie Perkins, Andrew Whitmire, and Symphony Perkins. She is also remembered by her sisters, Loretta Morigeau and Barbara Kerr; her brothers, Michael and Billy Borden; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, close family, and friends.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, James and Charlene Borden; her sisters: Dorothy Reed, Sarah McGhee, and the sister she lost when she was a baby, Charlotte Borden; along with her brothers: Wayne, Ray, Tommy, Tony, Robert, and John Boy Borden; grandson, Kaleb Terrell; and most recently, her precious great-grandbaby, Wyatt Womack.

Services honoring Carolyn's life will be held at Smith Benton Funeral Home, located at 322 N Market Street, Benton, AR 72015. Visitation will take place on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the Funeral Service commencing at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a tree be planted in Carolyn’s memory.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Encore in Bryant, particularly the ICU team, for the outstanding care and kindness they provided.

Carolyn Faye Perkins leaves behind a legacy of love, gentleness, and a deep sense of community. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be profoundly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of many.