WOODRUFF, Carolyn

    Carolyn Woodruff, 76, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on February 21, 2025. Born in the middle of winter on August 18, 1948, in Kyogle, New South Wales, Australia, Carolyn’s life was a beautiful symphony of music, family, and love.

    A passionate pianist and dedicated teacher, Carolyn shared her love for music with countless students over the years, many of whom went on to become piano teachers themselves and accompanists. Carolyn also played a significant role in her church, frequently accompanying music at services, especially in primary, and offering her musical talents to uplift others. Her devotion to music was not just a hobby, but a lifelong calling that shaped her interactions with the world.

    Above all, Carolyn cherished her family and the love of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and her greatest joy came from being surrounded by her loved ones. Carolyn’s home in Gilbert, Arizona, was her personal paradise – where she reveled in the warm sunshine and created a haven for Allen and herself, in which the family loved. Carolyn opened their home to anyone who needed refuge in a time of need in their lives. Her nurturing spirit, wisdom, and love will continue to guide her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, leaving a lasting legacy that will carry on for generations.

    Carolyn is survived by her loving husband Allen, her children Kent (Baylie, Brooke and Hayden and their children Gideon and Witten, Chanel and her daughter Harlow), Jennifer spouse Daniel (Matthew, Wyatt), Robert spouse Lynn (Riley, Kayden), Steven spouse Michelle (Ethan, Todd), Richard spouse Holly,  (Jacob, Abby,  Laura (Zaiden), Candace, Kenya, Kira, Caleb, Jonathan spouse Tiara, Marie spouse Taylor, Arabeth, Ella, Emily, Enoch) and many friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity. She was predeceased by her parents Robert and Marjorie Sackley.

    Carolyn’s love for music, her devotion to her family, her faith in Christ, and her warm, compassionate heart will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. While she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to inspire and uplift everyone whose life she touched.

    A memorial service to honor Carolyn’s life will be held on March 1, 2025, viewing at 1:00pm, service at 2:00pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel, located at 4629 East Guadalupe Road, Gilbert, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to BYU Pathway Worldwide in her memory. For those who would still like to send flowers please send them to funeral home by February 28, 2025 at 3:00pm.