GayeLynn Carling

GayeLynn Costley Carling, 67 of South Jordan, Utah, passed away peacefully on April 22nd, surrounded by her family after a short battle with Pancreatic Cancer.
GayeLynn was born on October 20, 1957, in Rivera, CA, to Marjorie and Harry Costley. After graduating from high school, she went to Dixie State College, where she met her lifelong best friend and soon-to-be sister-in-law, Karen Carling Kochevar. They continued on together, receiving teaching degrees from Utah State University.
A passionate educator, GayeLynn dedicated over 30 years to elementary education. In every role she took – classroom teacher, gifted and talented specialist, and assistant principal – her focus was always on making kids feel seen, heard, and building their confidence as learners and as people. She had a profound impact on countless students and colleagues alike.
GayeLynn was a kind soul with a selfless heart. She loved sitting on the porch in the morning with her cup of coffee, surrounded by nature, and watching the animals play. She was grateful for the little things and helped many people through the big things. When friends or family had a problem, they knew they could turn to GayeLynn for help without judgment. She tutored, she helped with paperwork, she took care of dogs, she babysat, and she always made sure everyone had a comfortable place to sit. Her happiest moments were spent in the mountains with her animals, on a quiet lake with friends or playing games with her family. She deserved more time, but never wasted what she was given.
GayeLynn was a loving wife, proud mother, and dedicated grandmother. GayeLynn had a deep love for all animals and held a special place in her heart for her loyal dog, Ellie, and her sweet pony, Tiny. Her gentle spirit and compassionate nature touched everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Craig Carling; her daughter, Chanda; her son, Cameron; her daughter-in-law, Marcella; and her cherished grandchildren, Brooklynn, Cooper, and Rosie. Mother-in-law, Pat Carling, sisters, Robin (Dwayne) Duke and Kelly (Max) Buffi, and brother, Larry Forsman.
Celebration of Life service details will be held at Jenkins-Soffe in South Jordan on Thursday, May 1st, with services at 3:00 p.m. and visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Please wear spring colors if possible, as she didn't want this day to be "dark." Her favorite color was yellow.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to organizations supporting the causes close to GayeLynn's heart: Scleroderma Foundation, National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation or the Humane Society.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.