Carolyn Kelly Wolfe

Carolyn Kelly Wolfe, 78, of Sandy Run, South Carolina, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Born on May 25, 1948, in Sanford, Florida, Carolyn was the daughter of the late Betty Jean Kelly Snare and Albert Levi Kelly, Jr. She was also loved and raised by her step-parents, the late Ernest “Ernie” Snare and Beulah "Bea" Snare.

Carolyn was a member of Mt. Zion Methodist Church and retired after twenty-seven years with the South Carolina Department of Transportation. While she was proud of her career, her true life’s work was caring for others and unconditionally loving her children and grandchildren.

An avid shopper with a passion for finding a good deal, Carolyn loved adding "bling" to her fun, seasonal outfits. She took great joy in making sure her grandchildren were always the best- dressed, and later in life, she loved hunting for treasures at estate sales. Carolyn was also a talented crafter who enjoyed painting, cross-stitch, embroidery, and wreath making. Her home came alive during the holidays, showcasing her extensive seasonal collections.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her loving husband of almost fifty years, James “Richard” Wolfe. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Alison Kelly Flake; her sister-in-law, Margaret Wolfe Taylor; and her brother-in-law, John “Brown” Wolfe.

She is survived by her daughter, Amanda Cole (Greg); her son, James "Chris" Wolfe (Laura); her sister, Linda Kelly Mack (Lindsey); sister-in-law, Carolyn “Tack” Makel (Delbert) and her sister- in-law, Delores “Ann” Wolfe. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Noah and Morgan Cornell, Rachel Sullivan (Vance), Caroline Wolfe, Austin, Garrett and Shelby Cole, and Brittany Cox; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Carolyn’s special caregivers - Rachel, Jennifer, and Tonya - who made it possible for her to remain in her home until God called her home to join Richard. Special thank you also to Sherri Stinson, RN and the team at Hospice Services of SC for their compassionate care.

The family will receive friends before the funeral service Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am in the sanctuary at Mt. Zion Methodist Church in Sandy Run, 2349 Old State Road, Swansea, SC 29160. The service will be held immediately after visitation, officiated by the Reverend James Lewis and Peg Nelson. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Zion Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 2349 Old State Road, Swansea, SC 29160; For The Love of a Paw, PO Box 3, Elloree, SC 29047; or to the Orangeburg SPCA, 225 Ruf Road, Orangeburg, SC 29118.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 200 State St. West Columbia, SC 29169 (803) 999-5015.