SWEET HOME, Oregon — Carolyn Mae Wilkerson, 89, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
Born on August 14, 1936, in Redlands to Velma (Clark) and Sanford Gunter, Carolyn grew up in Southern California before moving to Sweet Home in 1969. She dedicated 26 years of her life to education as an elementary school teacher, touching the lives of countless students.
Carolyn enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, including art and crafts, golf, playing bridge, and fishing. She also loved traveling and cooking, passions that brought joy to both her and those around her.
She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Felix Wilkerson; her daughter Mishell Swartwout of Grants Pass; her son Michael Wilkerson of Sweet Home; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Matthew Wilkerson in 2020 and her sister Cathie Slocum in 2025.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Sweet Home Funeral Chapel. The community remembers Carolyn Mae Wilkerson for her dedication, warmth, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.
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