Carolyn Sue Walters

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carolyn Sue Walters, 79, a beloved caregiver, mother, grandmother, and friend, who left us on July 3, 2025, in Springfield, Illinois. Carolyn was born on October 6, 1945, in Newton, Illinois, to the late John & Rosa Rubsam. Carolyn’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven from threads of love, laughter, and compassion.

Throughout her lifetime, Carolyn explored many career paths, yet her heart always belonged to the little ones. She found her true calling when she became the neighborhood caregiver for children in her home, where her nurturing spirit flourished. There, she created a warm and welcoming haven filled with joy, laughter, and the essence of childhood wonder.

Carolyn’s love for her family was profound. As a devoted mother, there was nothing she cherished more than being a loving grandma. Her home was a captivating symphony of family gatherings, especially during holidays, where the sound of laughter and the aroma of food danced together in an atmosphere of love. She thrived on the delightful chaos of a full house, where her kitchen became a canvas for culinary masterpieces, each dish a testament to her love language—feeding others.

Educationally grounded, Carolyn graduated from Newton Community High School in Illinois. However, her true education came from the many experiences and relationships she cultivated over the years. Known for her vibrant personality, Carolyn embraced life with a sense of fun and adventure. Her grandchildren knew her as the playful grandma who would often tease and joke around, creating joyful memories that they will carry in their hearts forever.

In her downtime, Carolyn indulged in her passions for sewing and floral arrangements. Whether it was mending clothes for her grandchildren or crafting beautiful bouquets for friends and family, her talents shone brightly, revealing a kind and generous spirit that welcomed creativity into her life.

Carolyn’s commitment to her community was evident in her years of volunteering with St. Vincent DePaul, where she positively impacted the lives of many. She was also blessed with a close-knit group of friends from St. Mark Catholic Church, where she found a strong sense of belonging and support throughout her life.

Carolyn is survived by her loving daughters; Angie (Rob) Larkin, and Jennifer (Donnie) Vaughn, grandchildren; Sydney (Anthony) McFarland, Shelby (Jeremiah) Barr, Chelsey (Carson) Vaughn, Ed Larkin, and Newton Larkin, great-grandchildren; Ariana McFarland, and Enzo McFarland, along with her siblings; Charlene Westendorf, Trudy Russo, Donald Rubsam, and Victor Rubsam.

Carolyn is preceded in death by her loving husband; Daymond Walters, and siblings; Oscar, Walter, Bernadette, Elmer, Robert, and Rosemary.

Visitation will be held at O’Riley-Branson Funeral Service & Crematory on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 4:00pm-8:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, July 11, 2025, at St. Mark Catholic Church (535 S. Edgewood Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana 46227) at 10:00am. Burial will be immediately following at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens in Greenwood, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Carolyn’s honor can be made to: St. Vincent De Paul, 3001 E. 30th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46218.Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.

As we remember Carolyn Sue Walters, let us celebrate a woman who embodied kindness, joy, and unwavering love. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion that will continue to inspire those she touched. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends, reminding us all of the beauty that comes from a life lived with love and purpose.

Please visit www.orileybranson.com to leave a memory of Carolyn or to sign our online guest book.