Carolyn Marie English, devoted wife, loving mother, caring friend and trusted confidant passed away at the age of 88 on Sunday, February 11, 2018, in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband and all their children by her side. Carolyn was born on May 9, 1929 to Paul Gerhardt Mueller and Della Marie Schafer in Orange, New Jersey. She spent most of her life in South Orange and Maplewood, New Jersey. She met the man of her dreams, Jack Lee English, and married him in August of 1950. For 67 wonderful years they laughed, explored and served those around them, as they raised their treasured family which not only consisted of the 4 children but always and forever a beloved dog. Truly man's best friend-their best friend.
Carolyn was known for her infectious smile, never ending spunk, unconditional love, a listening ear and a heart that wanted to heal the emotional aches and pains of all those with whom she came in contact. She was born with a gardening trowel in one hand and a water bucket in the other and the fruits of her gardens were freely given to all. No one could ever give her anything without her giving them something in return. She made life magical!!! Holidays were always very special, and she felt she had to share them in some way with neighbors and friends, to bring them a little extra joy and sunshine.
Her greatest gift was her love for the Savior and she truly found every means to be an instrument in His hands. The words "Love One Another" rang true throughout her life. Music was the heart and soul of her life and she cultivated that talent to sing His praises as it was her form of the Healer's art. She had roles in over 50 NJ State Operas. She was a member of the actor's guild SAG-AFTRA. However, her greatest roles were that of being a wife and a mother.
Carolyn loved to be a part of her community, both civically in her role as a Republican Party delegate and as an inspiration to those music students who she taught in her home. She enjoyed working as a substitute teacher in the Maplewood school system and cherished these last 20+ years at Millburn High School. The students kept her young and up-to-date on technology and the things in the world of teenagers today. In return, she motivated them to strive to reach their full potential and was not afraid to tell them how to live good and upstanding lives along with teaching the subject of the day. She, along with Jack, faithfully supported the students by attending their sporting, theatrical, musical and cultural events.
She was a hero to many, a friend to all and a pillar of strength to those who felt weak. Carolyn will be sorely missed but not forgotten. Her legacy lives on through her husband Jack and her 4 children, Wendy Christine Peterson (John); Carl Arthur (Rebecca); Richard Scott (Maralyn); and Lori-Lee Neuberger (Todd); her 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, Utah on Monday, February 19, 2018 at 2 p.m.
