Bishop Funeral Home
Submitted by: Carol Spear Rice

Carolyn Jean (Branson) Hollaway, 78 of McAlester died Friday, May 17, 2024 in McAlester. The family will greet friends 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday May 20, 2024 at Bishop Funeral Service and Crematory. A funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Bishop Chapel of Memories officiated by Rev. Jerry Hollaway and Rev. Keith Kinnamon. Burial will follow at Savanna Cemetery, Savanna. Pallbearers will be Jim Wilson, Bradley Wilson, Michael Coffman, Fred Whetsel and John Whetsel. Carolyn Jean was born to Ray Vinson and Ruth Marie (Oliphant) Branson on September 27, 1945 in McAlester. She graduated from Savanna High School and married Jerry DeWayne Hollaway on July 1, 1963. Carolyn and Jerry had a loving and caring relationship. It was based on mutual support and a deep love for one another. Carolyn and Jerry owned and operated Southeast Carpet and Supply in McAlester for 18 years. She then when on to work for The Bank Na, retiring as V.P. in 2009. Carolyn was a person of faith and lived a life serving others. She tirelessly served as a faithful pastor's wife for numerous Baptist churches. She was currently serving with her husband, Jerry at the Stuart First Baptist Church. She loved making her home an inviting and welcoming place for family and friends. She was known as "Nanny" to her grandchildren and great grandchildren and they were her pride and joy. Carolyn enjoyed making her house a home and spoiling her husband for over 60 years. In her younger years she enjoyed many fun family trips. Carolyn was always there to brighten the lives of others. She will be missed but not forgotten. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Ruth Branson; brother, Charles Ray Branson; sisters, Sandra Mae Smith; Barbara Littlejohn and brother-in-law, Johnny Littlejohn. Carolyn is survived by her husband of over 60 years, Rev. Jerry D. Hollaway of the home; daughter, Jerry Lynn Wilson and husband, Jim; grandchildren, Bradley Wilson and wife, Jordan; Brandi Coffman and husband, Michael all of McAlester; great grandchildren, Bracyn Wilson, Brielle Wilson, Rori Larue, Berklee Larue, Mackson Coffman; sister-in-law, Sharry Whetsel and husband, Fred; special friend, Lucille Whetsel; numerous nieces, nephews and other family members and friends.