Carolyn Theresa McCarty, 87, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, August 11, 2017.  She was born to Paul and Edna (Reidy) Kohley in LaPorte, IN on November 10, 1929 and was a lifetime resident of Union Mills.  It was here that she met her future husband, Gerald “Jerry” McCarty. They were married at St. Joseph Catholic Church in LaPorte on June 14, 1952 and were together until his passing on January 14, 1978. A loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Carolyn is survived by her children Jane (Carl) Baker of Noblesville, IN, Kyra (Dan) Utroske of Benton Harbor, MI, and Ray (Lori) McCarty of Mill Creek, IN, four grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, her sister Mary Deering, sisters-in-law Patricia Mangus and Lois (Larry) Wildfang of Union Mills, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one grandson, Hunter McCarty, and her sister, Donna Jean Winters.  Carolyn was the consummate educator throughout her life, but especially enjoyed her years teaching at Riley Elementary in LaPorte, and Coolspring School in Michigan City. She also taught kindergarten in her home. She worked for and retired from TP Laboratories in Westville, IN.  Carolyn devoted her life to helping others and giving to her community. She was an active member and held offices in various organizations, including Noble Twp. Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, American Legion Post 95 Auxiliary, Ladies of Sacred Heart, Indiana Volunteer Fire Department Association Auxiliary, and the Union Mills Conservation Club, where she was actively involved with Save Our Pond/Mill Pond Festival. She was a Board member of South Central Community Schools and driver for Meals on Wheels. In her spare time, Carolyn loved the outdoors, traveling to see family and friends, and camping. All who needed her could find her sitting by a campfire in her backyard, where she was willing to listen, share words of encouragement, and a cold drink. The community lost a dear woman who willingly helped whenever and wherever she was needed and she will be missed by many. Friends and family are invited to share in a Celebration of Life that will take place on Wednesday, August 23rd at the Union Mills Conservation Clubhouse from 4:00-8:00 PM. A Catholic Requiem Mass will be held at 10:00AM on Thursday, August 24th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Wanatah, IN with Rev. Mick Kopil officiating. Donations may be made to the Noble Twp. Volunteer Fire Department and Unity Foundation of LaPorte County for the Union Mills Conservation Club.  The Newhard Funeral Home in Westville is in charge of arrangements. www.newhardfuneralhome.com

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