LOUISBURG - Carolyn Baker Gardner, 74, of Louisburg, died peacefully in her sleep on Friday evening, March 11, in her home. She had been an invalid after a devastating accident which occurred in 1974. While her family mourns her loss, they are rejoicing in the fact that she is free of her earthly body and no longer suffers.

Carolyn was born on October 19, 1941 in Franklin County to Marshall and Clee Baker, who lovingly cared for her until their deaths. She graduated from W.R. Mills High School in Louisburg in 1959. She was employed at the NC Department of Motor Vehicles in Raleigh for 10 years prior to her accident.

Before her accident, Carolyn was noted for her unselfish love of her family, especially her only daughter, Jackie, whom she doted on. She was an avid lover of music, having served as pianist at her home church, Maple Springs Baptist, during her teenage years. During her adult life she was an active and devoted member of Midway Baptist Church in Raleigh. She served as pianist for the church and was also an active choir member. Because of her fondness of music, Carolyn decided to pass on her passion to young people by teaching piano lessons for several years in her home. Carolyn had a talent for composing music and playing her own compositions as well. She was also a gifted seamstress who sometimes made garments without following a pattern.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Marshall and Clee Griffin Baker. She is survived by her only child, Jackie Gardner (Keith Wrenn) of the home; grandson, William Harris of Raleigh; granddaughters, Whitney Harris of Alexandria, VA and Chelsea Harris of Raleigh; great-granddaughter, Kylie Sophia Stanley of the home; sister, Kaye Baker Harris; brothers Ben Baker (Angela) and Archie Baker (Georgette), all of Louisburg. She will be missed by her devoted caregiver for many years, Lisa Wilder of Louisburg.

The funeral service was held on Monday, March 14, 11:00 am at Maple Springs Baptist Church in Louisburg, NC, with visitation following the service in the fellowship hall. The family received friends and family at the home at all other times.

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg.

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