Carolyn Ann Lyons

Carolyn Ann Lyons

Carolyn Ann Lyons, a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and dear friend, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, in Royal Oak, Michigan, at the age of 75. She was born on January 6, 1951, in Mebane, North Carolina.

Carolyn lived a life marked by strength, joy, faith, and unconditional love for those around her. She was truly a ray of sunshine whose laughter, warm smile, and encouraging spirit brightened every room she entered. Funny, outspoken, intelligent, brave, and deeply compassionate, Carolyn touched countless lives through her kindness and unwavering love.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her father, Floyd C. Paylor Jr.; her sisters, Betty and Rhonda; and her brother, Rezell Paylor.

Carolyn is lovingly survived by her mother, Mary B. Paylor; her children, April Lyons and Ezekiel Farrington III; her cherished grandchildren, Paul Brown and Caleb Farrington; her brothers, Larry (Concepcion) Paylor, Curtis Paylor, John Paylor, Floyd Paylor III, and Remi Graves; her sisters, Brenda Paylor, Remonia Alston, and Regina Spradley; and her beloved dog, Job, a loyal and faithful companion who brought her unconditional love, comfort, and joy throughout her life.

She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness, strength, and loving spirit. Her memory will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Family meant everything to Carolyn. Of all her accomplishments, she was most proud of her grandchildren. She especially celebrated her grandson, Paul, whose graduation from high school filled her with pride and who is expected to graduate from college next year. Nothing brought her greater happiness than watching her family grow and succeed.

Carolyn attended college and graduated from cosmetology school, an accomplishment she was proud to achieve. She also enjoyed a long and dedicated career with AT&T, where she faithfully worked from 1976 until her retirement in 2008.

Outside of work, Carolyn found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved putting together 500- to 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles, trying new recipes in the kitchen, reading inspirational books, and spending time surrounded by family and friends. Whether sharing a meal, a story, or a laugh, she made everyone feel welcome and loved.

A woman of deep faith, Carolyn often reminded those around her with one of her favorite sayings, "Lord willin' and the creek don't rise." She also held close the words of Exodus 20:12: "Honor your father and your mother." Her faith guided her throughout her life and gave her peace in every season.

Carolyn was a special soul—a true gift from God—who has now been called home. She is at peace, free from heartache, pain, and disappointment, resting safely with her Savior. While her absence leaves an immeasurable void, she would not want those who loved her to dwell in sorrow. Instead, she would encourage everyone to smile, laugh, and enjoy the precious gift of life. If you happen to see a cardinal, think of Carolyn's beautiful smile and know that her loving spirit is never far away.

In accordance with Carolyn's wishes, no memorial service will be held. She asked instead that those who knew and loved her remember her through the laughter they shared, the memories they cherish, and the love she gave so freely. Her final wish was for her ashes to be scattered over the islands she loved and enjoyed visiting.

Though Carolyn's earthly journey has ended, the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the joy she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.