Carolyn Kuester McCarty, born October 24th, 1946, in Griswold, IA, passed away peacefully on April 1st, 2026. Born to Ruby May Patton Spires and Norman Dallas Kuester, she graduated from Baker High School in Columbus, GA, in 1964.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruby May Patton Spires, her father Norman Dallas Kuester, her stepfather, Beverly “Bill” E. Spires, and her brother Norman Dallas Kuester Jr.

After graduation, Carol went to Washington D.C. where she worked for the FBI. She then returned home to Columbus, GA, where she married her husband of 59 years, Jimmy McCarty, on December 30th, 1966. She worked in civil service’s accounting division at Fort Benning for 30 years, retiring in 1995. She then went on to be a paraprofessional in the Muscogee County School District, retiring after over 10 years of service.

Carol is survived by her beloved husband Jimmy, her siblings Linwood Spires (Dora) and Linda Lee (Bob), her sons Kevin (Nikki) and Steven, her grandchildren Ian and Ellie, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Those who knew Carol can attest to her generosity, joy, and creativity, all of which were rooted in her love for the Lord, for her church, Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church, and for people. She, along with her husband, spent countless hours caring for friends and family, ministering to those in need, and giving of herself and her resources to all those around her. Her joy was seen in her near-always smiling face; she delighted in annual vacations to Daytona Beach, Fall getaways to the Smoky Mountains, and found happiness in the little things of life, like seeing a cardinal in her backyard, or taking pictures of her loved ones with one of her many disposable cameras. Carol’s creative side was a gift to many, as she played piano for years at her church, and had a passion for writing and poetry. Those that knew her best find comfort knowing that she is now in Heaven, playing the instrument she loves, for her Lord and Savior.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 9th, 2026, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, at Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held immediately following, beginning at 11:00 AM. Travis Rigsby and Ken Chancellor will officiate the service. In memory of Carol, flowers are welcome, or donations may be made to Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church or Columbus Hospice.

Georgia Cremation-Columbus is assisting the family with the arrangements.