Carolyn Dykes Harrison

Carolyn Dykes Harrison, 88, of Thomasville, Georgia, passed away at her home on Sunday, October 11, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born August 30, 1938, in Blountstown, Florida, Carolyn was the daughter of the late Clifton Bennett Dykes and Louise May Dykes. She grew up in Blountstown and graduated from Blountstown High School in 1956, where she was a member of the Honor Society and enjoyed singing in the Glee Club. Her love of music and her Christian faith were evident early in her life through her participation in the choir at First Baptist Church in Blountstown.

On January 29, 1957, at the age of 18, Carolyn married Gary Lee Harrison, beginning a remarkable marriage that would span nearly seventy years. Together, they built a life founded on love, faith, respect, and enduring commitment. Through life’s joys and sorrows, challenges and celebrations, their devotion to one another remained steadfast. Their marriage stands as a testament to the strength of lifelong love and partnership.

Carolyn and Gary began their married life in Blountstown before making their homes in Dothan, Alabama, and Macon, Georgia, eventually settling in Thomasville, where they would spend most of their married years and raise their family.

Above all, Carolyn was devoted to her family. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she gave generously of her time, energy, and affection. She was deeply involved in her children’s lives, serving as a troop leader, supporting their many activities, and providing the steady guidance and unconditional love that kept her family grounded.

Carolyn was independent, strong-willed, and unwavering in her convictions. She believed deeply in honesty, respect, and commitment, values she sought to instill in her family through both word and example. Those who knew her well will also remember her unmistakable raised eyebrow — a simple expression that could let you know, without a word being spoken, that you had stepped out of line.

Carolyn enjoyed sewing, cooking, reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Thanksgiving and Christmas were especially meaningful occasions, bringing her family together around traditions she cherished. Her fried chicken, potato salad, and sour cream pound cake were family favorites, remembered as warmly as the gatherings themselves.

Carolyn’s Christian faith was the foundation of her life. For nearly fifty years, she was a devoted member of First Newark Baptist Church in Thomasville, where she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and served on the Social Committee. Her faith guided her values, her relationships, and her devotion to family and friends. Among her favorite hymns was “The Old Rugged Cross.”

Carolyn is survived by her beloved husband of nearly seventy years, Gary Lee Harrison; her four children, Wendy Harrison Taffer (Mike), Bob Harrison, Sue Gravelle (Ralph), and Jim Harrison (Bonnie); and her three siblings, Francis Quillan, Clifton Ray Dykes, and Jimmy Dykes.

She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Joshua Taffer (Anna) and Caleb Taffer; Kelly Godwin (Phillip), Rebecca Howes (John), and Robby Harrison; and Kutter Harrison and Chase Harrison (Brooke).

Her ten great-grandchildren include Jackson and Chloe, children of Kelly Godwin; Colt, Evie, and Mia, children of Joshua Taffer; Olivia, Michael, Alexander, and Addison, children of Rebecca Howe; and James Wyatt (“JW”), son of Chase Harrison.

Carolyn enjoyed a particularly close and meaningful relationship with her brother-in-law Chick Harrison, and her sister-in-law, Virginia Harrison. The bond they shared was built on years of love, friendship, and cherished memories. Both held a special place in her heart and were an important part of her life.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Raul Santos and the staff of Georgia Kidney and Hypertension Clinic; Dr. Jackson Hatfield; and the dedicated staff of All Ways Caring HomeCare for their kindness and support.

The family will receive friends Thursday, October 15, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Allen & Allen Funeral Home, 110 West Hansell Street, Thomasville, Georgia. A funeral service celebrating Carolyn’s life will be held Friday, October 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Newark Baptist Church, 225 Russell Road, Thomasville, Georgia, with Steve Brooks officiating. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Carolyn’s memory to The Carnation Foundation, supporting the compassionate work of Georgia Hospice Care. Donations may be made online at https://give.carnationfoundation.org/.

Carolyn leaves a legacy of enduring faith, steadfast love, strong family values, and a lifetime of devotion to those she held dear. Her independent spirit, strength of character, and unwavering love for her family will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.