Franklin, New York - FRANKLIN - Carolyn J. Worden, a devoted and supportive wife, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away July 16, 2025, at the age of 85. Born Sept. 14, 1939, Carolyn was a resident of Franklin.

She was the cherished daughter of Ralph and Dorothy (Andrews) Whitney, both of whom predeceased her. Carolyn was the beloved wife of her lifelong friend and husband, Wayne, with whom she shared a remarkable journey. Wayne and Carolyn met in fifth grade and one week after her high school graduation they were married. On June 30 they celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary.

Carolyn was a loving mother to her two children, Mitchell (Sonya) Worden and Wendy Worden (David Odell). She was also a proud grandmother to grandson Corey (Amy Brower) Schmitz, and a great-grandmother to precious great-grandsons, Ezra and Silas Schmitz.

She is also survived by her sisters, Joanne (Bill) Buccheri and Louise (Donnie) Hebbard. Carolyn leaves behind a family she loved and cherished, including cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her big brother, Ernie Whitney.

Carolyn was a true supporter of her church, Franklin United Methodist Church (Open Door United Methodist Church), and was actively involved in her church and various clubs, including the United Methodist Women's group, the Washington reading club, and the Onesiphorai ladies group. She was a homemaker known for her design and beauty, and her chocolate chip cookies were a favorite among many. She loved hosting Christmas family get togethers.

While Wayne was in the service, the family lived in many different places both in the U.S. and other countries. Carolyn loved collecting sea glass and pine cones from all over the world. Although she never pursued it, she did further her education and received a cosmetology certificate.

Even as she struggled with dementia in her later years, Carolyn managed to share smiles and chuckles, leaving behind wonderful family memories. Her family is forever grateful to all first responders, special neighbors Troy, Lora, and Trace, Mike Hyzer, Renee Spataforna and the caregivers at Fox Nursing Home, Helios, and HCR Care.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Sept. 13 in the Wesley Hall at the Open Doors Church, Franklin (formerly Franklin Methodist Church). Carolyn's warmth and dedication to her family and community will be dearly missed.

Those who wish to send a card to Wayne may do so at A.O. Fox Nursing Home, 1 Norton Ave., Room 212, Oneonta, NY 13820 and memorial contributions may be made to the Open Door United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 55, Franklin, NY 13775 in loving memory of Carolyn Worden.

To send the family an online condolence please visit www.bennettfh.com

Arrangements are by Kenneth L. Bennett Funeral Home.