Carolyn Grissom Glaze

Caroline "Carolyn" Grissom Glaze, 87, of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, after several days surrounded by her loving family, dear friends, and devoted caregivers.

Born on March 28, 1939, in Gaston County, North Carolina, Carolyn was the daughter of the late George Lester Grissom and Edith Jennings Grissom.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years, Wilson Eugene "Gene" Glaze Sr.; her brothers, sisters, and their spouses, Rev. George and Sylvia Grissom, Gene and Kathleen Grissom, Eva and Nathan Jones, Judy Grissom Stewart, Walter Hamilton, and Vernon Cahoon; and most recently, her sister, Shirley Hamilton Cahoon.

Carolyn is survived by her son, Wilson "Gene" Glaze II and wife Margaret; her daughter, Julie Carolyn Black and husband Keith; her grandchildren, Mac, Catherine, and Wilson Glaze; Madison Caroline and Abby Black; and Jennings and Sam Storie. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Orpha Ferguson; her brother-in-law, Donald Glaze; and numerous loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

A lifelong woman of faith, Carolyn was a devoted member of Olney Presbyterian Church for 75 years, where she faithfully served in numerous capacities throughout her life. In 1966, she began a 33-year career in the legal profession with the late Honorable Judge Julius Sanders. After retiring in 1999, she devoted herself to her most treasured role as "Gimme" to her five grandchildren, whose lives and accomplishments were a constant source of joy and pride.

Carolyn was known for her generous hospitality, sharp wit, and delightful sense of humor. She loved gathering family and friends around her table, celebrating life's milestones, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come. Whether sharing a meal, telling a story, or offering a perfectly timed remark, she had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome and loved. Her kindness, wisdom, and deep love for family and friends will be remembered always.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to lifelong friends, Susan and Harold Kelley; her devoted caregiver Kay Mosteller; Stephanie and her compassionate team for the loving care and support provided during Carolyn’s final weeks; Angela and Angela with Carolina Caring Hospice; and her loving nurses and staff at Kingston Residence for the care, kindness, and support provided through the years.

The family will celebrate the lives of Carolyn and recently deceased sister, Shirley Hamilton Cahoon, on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Olney Presbyterian Church. Friends are invited to visit the family in the Fellowship Hall beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a joint graveside service at 11:00 a.m. in Olney Church Cemetery. Olney Presbyterian Church is located at 251 Olney Church Road, Gastonia, NC 28056.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Accessible Books and Library Services (ABLS), 1841 Capital Boulevard, Raleigh, NC 27635, whose Talking Book Program brought Carolyn countless hours of enjoyment after losing her vision in 2023.

Friends of the NCABLS 1841 Capital Boulevard Raleigh, NC 27635

Arrangements are entrusted to Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Gastonia.