Carolyn Norris Kuykendall, 83, of Canton, North Carolina, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on June 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 22, 1942, in Yancy County, North Carolina, Carolyn was the daughter of the late William Thomas Norris and Wales Clark Norris. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Joel Kuykendall, who passed away on July 21, 2019; her sister, Joyce Mease; her brother, Hoyt Norris; and her grandson, Norris Clark Kuykendall.

Carolyn dedicated more than 20 years of service as a Teacher’s Assistant with Morning Star Elementary School and then Clyde Elementary school, where she touched the lives of countless students and families. She was a faithful member of Oak Grove Baptist Church and found great joy in her faith, family, and community.

Known affectionately as “Granny,” Carolyn treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved cooking for her family, visiting the beach, and creating lasting memories with those she loved most. Her warm spirit, gentle heart, and unwavering devotion to her family will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Reed (Bryan); her sons, David Kuykendall and Bryan Kuykendall (Stephanie); her grandchildren, Cole Kuykendall (Sarah), Jackson Sharpe, Callie Franklin (Andrew), and Merit Kuykendall; and her great-grandchildren, Cabe, Mason and Micah.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Monday June 8, 2026 at Wells Funeral Home in Canton. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Reverend Donnie Henson officiating. Burial will follow at New Cruso Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Sandra Epley for the compassion, care, and kindness she showed Carolyn during the past several years.

Wells Funeral Home of Canton has been entrusted with Carolyn Kuykendall's Care.