In Loving Memory of Carolyn Beth Haynie

October 7, 1971 - September 4, 2026

Carolyn Beth Haynie was born on October 7, 1971, in Thousand Oaks, California, to Geraldine and Robert Whitener. She passed away on September 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and devotion to her family.

Carolyn is survived by her parents, Geraldine and Robert Whitener; her children, McKay, Hunter, and Chloe; her beloved grandchildren, Locklyn and Athena; her four sisters, Becky, Susie, Linda, and Amy; and her two brothers, Rick and Jim. Carolyn is preceded in death by her brother Gary, her Aunt Vivian, and her grandmother Thora Avery.

Carolyn loved children and dedicated much of her life to helping them. She worked as an administrator for Gilbert Public Schools, where she went out of her way to help children and families in need, including helping students receive assistance for school lunches and caring for kids with special needs. She also worked as a court reporter.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She loved the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions, especially those involving children. She was a Primary and Nursery teacher.

One of Carolyn's greatest gifts was seeing the people others sometimes overlooked. She had a natural ability to recognize those who felt left out or forgotten and make them feel welcomed, valued, and included. Whether it was a child, a neighbor, or someone she had just met, Carolyn made people feel like they belonged.

Carolyn adored her family, especially her grandchildren. Even though Athena and Locklyn lived far away, she was always thinking about them, calling them, and remembering them on their birthdays and holidays. She was a devoted homemaker, loved caring for others, and cherished her beloved dog, Cricket.

Her four sisters were also some of her very best friends. They shared weekly outings to Taco Bell, Wendy's, or Mimi's Cafe, annual sisters' trips to places like Big Bear, and visits to their dad in Tennessee. One of their favorite adventures was attending The Price Is Right for Becky's birthday. Sadly, they weren't chosen from the audience - but everyone agrees the ratings would have gone through the roof if they had been.

Carolyn enjoyed whodunit documentaries, had a sweet tooth, loved Yoshino's, and found joy in the simple things. Above all, she will be remembered for her kindness, her faith, and her remarkable ability to make people feel loved and included.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew her.