Gracie Carolyn Smithson

Carolyn, as she was known by friends and family, was born in Fort Mill, S.C. to Henry and Alice (Taylor) Carrouth on Jan. 1, 1940. She married the late Lyle D. Smithson Sr. on June 16, 1956, in Denver. They moved to Alpha where they worked and raised their two children. Carolyn worked at the Crystal Café in Crystal Falls for 20 years and operated a daycare for over 25 years. She truly loved the children she cared for.

Carolyn was a member of Christ United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday school. She was a member of the VFW Tufts-Rondon Auxiliary.

Carolyn enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, but especially loved the time spent with her grandchildren.

Carolyn is survived by one son, Lyle (Debbie) Smithson of Crystal Falls; one daughter, Cindy (Lou) Hagler of Bossier City, La; seven grandchildren, Marcus (Lauren) Smithson, Michael (Caity Tefft) Smithson, Brett Smithson, Bryce Smithson, Christopher (Jessica) Masterson, Douglas (Amanda) Pacheco and Jina (Leo) Wright; three great-grandchildren, Kaylin and Christian Masterson and Elisabeth Tonack; along with many nieces, nephews and close friends.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Carolyn was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Pamela; and one sister, Patricia Carrouth.

Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 27. Services will follow at 11 a.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, with Pastor Vicky Prewitt officiating.

Condolences to the family of Gracie Carolyn Smithson may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net.

The family has entrusted Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the arrangements.