Carolyn Louise Shelton Desjarlais passed from this life on April 18, 2026, two days after her 96th birthday. Carolyn was born in Atlanta, GA, on April 16, 1930, to George and Vesta Shelton. She is survived by seven of her eight children--Theresa Gardiner (Doug), Mary Ciske (Bruce), Edward Desjarlais (Kimmy), Jean Napier (Bryan) Greg Desjarlais, Bill Desjarlais (Dava), and Bernadette Maynard (Bryan); one of her four sisters, Bette Shelton Ewing; and one brother, George Shelton. Carolyn had 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Gilbert, son, Gilbert, Jr., and grandson Stephen.

A funeral Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate her life will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 1:00, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dalton, GA. Visitation will take place at the church prior to the service from 11:00-1:00. Burial in the church burial garden will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dalton or to Amedisys Hospice Care. If flowers are sent, please refrain from sending roses or lilies due to allergies.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, Dalton, Georgia. “Your Selected Independent Funeral Home”