Carolyn Hazel Marler

Carolyn Hazel Marler, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She was born on January 14, 1941, in Six Mile, South Carolina, to Thomas W. Nations and Annie Lee Nations. Carolyn was a vibrant spirit who touched the lives of everyone she met with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas (Wilk) W. Nations and Annie Lee Nations; her siblings, Mildred Marler, Gail Rice, and Thomas (Tommy) Nations; as well as her husband, James (Jimmy) R. Marler, and her sons, James (Robby) R. Marler, Jr. and “Little Ricky” Marler and her grandson, Dylan Marler. Carolyn’s life was marked by love, as she cherished her family deeply. Carolyn is survived by her loving sister, Margaret Pollard; her daughters, Angela Brubeck (Bob), Tracy Rackley (Tim), and Shannon Elias (Robbie); her daughter-in-law, Lyn Marler; and her grandchildren, Brittany Boyd (Joshua), Christopher French, Courtney French, Max Elias and Mason Elias, and 5 great grandchildren, James, Carter, Jaxton, Blakely, and Jade; her sisters-in-law, Bobbie Styles (Don) and June Marler, and brother-in-law, Ray Marler; as well as many nieces and nephews who loved aunt Carolyn dearly; all of whom carry on her legacy of love and care. She had a unique gift for making those around her feel like family, earning the affectionate nickname "Granny" from many who felt the warmth of her heart. For over 25 years, Carolyn was a dedicated employee at Houser's Shoes, where her strong work ethic and genuine spirit made her a valued member of the team. She was also a devoted member of the First Freewill Baptist Church for more than 50 years. Carolyn was known for her love of gardening, often spending her days planting flowers and tending to her garden. She was an excellent cook, and no family meal was complete without her homemade biscuits. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially during her drives through the mountains. No matter where she was headed, she approached each journey with excitement, often standing at the door, purse in hand, ready for the adventure that awaited her. It wasn't the destination, it was the journey that she loved. Though Carolyn had a gentle demeanor, she was fiercely protective of her children, and when a situation arose that called for her strength, she was a force to be reckoned with. Her nurturing spirit and caring nature extended beyond her family, as she had a way of making everyone feel special and valued. In her later years, Carolyn's heart remained open to all living creatures, especially feral cats, whom she devotedly fed and cared for. Her compassion for these animals reflected her generous spirit, and in her memory, the family requests that donations be made to local Humane Societies in lieu of flowers. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Magnolia Manor of Spartanburg and Family Hospice for their compassionate care, which made Carolyn feel like family in her final days. A special thanks to our cousin, Mandy Rice for help with our mom, and to our uncle, Jimmy Rice for the companionship he gave her over the last few years. A graveside service will be held to celebrate Carolyn’s life, honoring the remarkable woman she was and the indelible mark she left on all our hearts on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 3:00 PM at Greenville Memorial Gardens; 7784 Augusta Road Piedmont, SC 29673. Carolyn Hazel Marler will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her soul rest in peace as she journeys to the mountains she loved so dearly.

Tributes

Carolyn Hazel Marler

January 14, 1941 - October 31, 2024