Carolyn Ann Lawson

Carolyn Ann Lawson, 65, of New Haven passed away on Friday, August 11th, 2023. She was born on March 17th, 1958 to Gladys Joan (Moore) Rhoades and Jack Allen Rhoades.

Carolyn was an avid euchre player and loved attending weekly games throughout New Haven. She liked playing at East Haven Tavern. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing women’s softball throughout Fort Wayne. She played for many teams and even went to the state tournament with one. At one point, nearly all of her five sisters played on the same team which was coached by her brother-in-law. It was a very lively crew that didn’t always see eye-to-eye which made for some funny and wonderful stories. However, they all loved the competition and one another very much.

Carolyn was an excellent, dynamic, and attentive waitress for most of her career. She spent many years at Don Halls Restaurants as well as Bandidos Restaurants. People loved her smiling, happy demeanor. She was fantastic at her job. Always relaying a story about an especially great customer or tip she received. Eventually, she became a hostess at Bob Evans. She enjoyed her position and the friends she made there.

Carolyn was always a “wild one” full of life and excitement. Often her mercurial personality and competitive nature would cause people confusion and ire, but she carried on being just who she was, damn the haters! There wasn’t a rule she wouldn’t break if she deemed it unnecessary or optional. She loved to help people and would practically give them the shirt off her back if that was what was required. There was never a person at the gas station with an empty fuel gauge that didn’t get at least a couple of dollars to get them down the road a little further. She was a true friend and supporter of the downtrodden.

Carolyn is survived by her daughter, Amy (Eric Quickery) Rhoades her son, Ryan Lawson, her brother, Jack (Rita) Rhoades, her sisters Stephanie Oberley, Janice Becraft, Kathy (Joe) Saalfrank, Gail (Thom Horton) Rhoades and Laura (Bryan Lugo) King. She’s also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews whom she adored, as well as a large loving extended family.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, nephew, Alex King, her brothers-in-law Ricky Oberley and Mark Becraft; her sweet dog Mollie, as well as many beloved family members.
A memorial celebration of life to be scheduled for a later date for all to attend. Family will share information via social media.

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