Carolyn Willey
July 15, 1937 - September 23, 2022
Sacramento, California - After a life well lived, Carolyn Willey passed peacefully on September 23rd, 2022.
Born in southern California, Carolyn and her family moved to Sacramento just in time for her to begin McClatchy High School. As a young woman, Carolyn was a legal secretary and worked for the Sacramento police dispatch in addition to keeping the books for her husband's business.
Married 62 years, Carolyn and Wayne enjoyed their life together. Wayne brought joy to his wife's life in many ways. Building their house on the lake was a dream come true for her. Receiving the gift of her mustang convertible brought a smile to Carolyn's face for years. A very special memory was the renewal of their wedding vows in Carmel on their 35th Anniversary. Together they enjoyed going on cruises and spending time with friends and family in Tahoe and Bodega. Recently, they enjoyed spending time together, sitting side by side watching Hallmark love stories and eating popcorn.
Not only an amazing mother, supporting J.R. and Kristin throughout the years in all they did, but Carolyn was also an extraordinary Grandmother to Justin, Michael and Matthew. She made a point of staying connected to her Grandsons, phoning each on their scheduled weekly calls.
Carolyn's love for sports included years of playing softball and co-ed volleyball with Wayne. She was a passionate 49er fan. Her competitive spirit really came alive during family ping pong games, domino matches, Monopoly games and especially while betting March Madness with her son-in-law, Dave.
Another passion throughout her life was animals. The Willey pets were so lucky, especially Brodie, the Amazing Two Legged Dog. Carolyn's dedication to Brodie allowed her to run again and enjoy life.
A loyal and loving friend to so many, when her family wanted to throw a surprise 50th birthday party for her, they decided to surprise her twice. She loved the Friday night surprise with her family, including her many beloved nieces and nephews. But she was even more surprised the next night when she walked into a second party with all of her dear friends.
Carolyn loved talking on the phone and going out to lunch with her girlfriends. She always looked forward to her "Girls Trip to Bodega", an annual tradition of over 30 years. She was also well known for sending thoughtful cards to all. Hallmark has lost a faithful customer!
While being reunited with her son J.R. in heaven, Carolyn will be especially missed by her husband Wayne, Daughter and Son in Law, Kristin and Dave Striplin, Grandsons Justin Willey, Michael Striplin and Matthew Striplin, Sister Judie Waters, Sister in Law Betty Coker and numerous Nieces and Nephews.
In honor of Carolyn's love for animals, Memorial Remembrances can be given to Front Street Animal Shelter or Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Oct. 2, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Carolyn Willey

4 Entries

Carol Reilly

February 14, 2025

I see I added a note yrs back so here´s an additional one
We drive past Cove Court every Saturday and I always look down at your lovely home. Warms my heart. Saw Kristin and your loving Wayne a few months back outside of La Bou. I so remember your beautiful cards to Phyllis when she was ill. She just loved them. Thank u Carolyn for the joyful lasting impact in my life.
Xxxx Carol

Carol Reilly

December 3, 2022

Carolyn, you were such a kind and loving person. I hadn´t seen you for many yrs but I always knew you were at Cove Ct --a home you opened for many mtgs of the Omega Nu group. I loved your beautiful gold charm bracelet that jingled when you loved. Pls hug Rich for me. My heart misses you both. Healing hugs to your wonderful Wayne and Kristin. Carol Reilly.

darren waters

October 4, 2022

very nice tribute robyn. she was a very special lady and will be missed by all. thanks darren waters

Robyn Rutherford -Peterson

October 2, 2022

There are no words to express the loss my family feels . Mrs Willey was not only our dear next door neighbor on lake greenhaven for the past 50 years , she saw and shared 3 generations as the " candy lady " with just a tap on her door . Always interested in everyone of us making each feel " special "
Carolyn & our mother Darlene checked on each other with weekly phone calls recapping the family news as well as making sure the other was doing well. A birthday was never missed . They had a special bond which will be missed
She made our wedding days magical by wrapping the lamp post between our two homes with white satin ribbons & bells .
Dressed to a tee , classic always
Never out without her gold memory charm bracelet & perfect nails .
For me , I loved that she made the drive to Seattle for my sons wedding
And to my delight had the room next to us at our hotel . I remember feeling so grateful to have both she & Wayne there for me .
I called her a couple weeks ago when my mom says , " Carolyn is not feeling well " we had an hour long call and in true Mrs Willey form , she never let on that she was tired , only Intetested in my family & how everyone was doing
I will miss you terribly Carolyn , I am grateful for the huge part you played in my family´s lives . You have been a gift

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