Carolyn A. (Rader) Grilliot

Carolyn A. (Rader) Grilliot

“49.95,” of Oxford, went to be with the Lord, Saturday, April 5, 2025.

She was born February 16, 1947, in Fairhaven, to the late Everett S. and Arnett (Howard) Rader.

In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her siblings, Green Rader, Myrtle Boyd, Gosh Rader, Jack (Rosie) Rader, Sue Gilbert, and baby Jane Rader.

She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Ray Grilliot; children, Charity (Tom) Drury, Ray (Melinda) Grilliot Jr., and Hope (John) Spohn; grandchildren, Annabella “Bella,” Jeremiah “J-Boy,” and Mia Grace “Graceie”; sisters, Marilyn Gibbs and Marcy Sulzberger; brother, Linden Rader; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Carolyn passed peacefully from this life into the arms of her Savior, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. While her earthly journey has ended, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched, each one made better simply by knowing her.

A cherished member of the Oxford Church of the Nazarene, Carolyn served faithfully in many roles: as a passionate song leader, a dedicated missionary director, and the heart behind countless luncheons for the Fellowship/Friendship Committee. Whether she was cooking up something delicious in the church kitchen or lifting spirits with her voice, Carolyn did everything with grace and joy.

Her home was just as much a sanctuary as her church. Her Sunday dinners were legendary- a weekly spread that looked more like a Thanksgiving feast than a regular meal. With the comforting aroma of homemade dishes filling the air, loved ones gathered around her table to laugh, share stories, and eat until they couldn’t possibly take another bite. Her cooking and baking weren’t just about food, they were about creating memories, feeding souls, and making sure everyone left with a full heart and a full plate (and usually some leftovers).

She was a woman of deep faith and even deeper love, especially for her grandchildren, who knew her best as Mamaw. It was in becoming Mamaw that Carolyn discovered just how much love a heart could hold. Her grandchildren were her world, and she never missed a chance to tell them how proud she was, always ready with open arms, a warm hug, and perhaps a slice of pie or two.

And while she was a devoted servant of the Lord, Carolyn carried one sweet secret through life, her undying love for actor Tom Selleck. With a twinkle in her eye, she’d proudly admit that "Magnum, P.I." could do no wrong and that the man with the mustache held a special place in her heart. We like to think she’s now telling that story in heaven with a giggle.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, April 9 from 5PM to 7PM at PREBLE MEMORY GARDENS FUNERAL CENTER, West Alexandria.  The funeral service will begin at 11:30AM on Thursday, April 10 at the funeral home with interment to follow at Preble Memory Gardens Cemetery.