With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Carol Jean Carver, a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. Carol passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 17th, 2026, at the age of 61, at her home in Simpson County, KY.

Carol was born on Monday, November 23rd, 1964, in Simpson County, Kentucky. She lived a life full of love and dedication, rooted in her community. Carol was a devoted waitress, a career through which she touched many lives with her kind heart and warm smile. Her career began at Ma & Pa’s Diner under Valley & Virgil Shoulders, followed by establishing her own establishment, CC’s Country Cooking, which she owned and operated for over a decade. Carol's journey continued at the Hot Plate with Ray and Betty Chaffin for 20 years, and concluded at Rylan’s Restaurant under Debbie Goodnight.

Carol adored spending time outdoors, whether it was around the pool and deck with her family or camping under the stars. She found joy in music, reading, and watching movies, especially crime shows. Above all, she cherished the moments spent playing games with her beloved grandchildren.

Carol is survived by her two children, Kenneth Wayne “Bubba” Carver (Courtney) of Franklin, KY, and Whitney Nicole Carver (J.W. Key) of Franklin, KY; her step-son, Jonathon Wayne Dunn Carver (Alison) of Smiths Grove, KY; her cherished grandchildren, Conner Shane Adams, Hunter Wayne Adams, Brenlon Wayne Gage Conyer, Chloe Grace Carver, and Kambri Rae Carver; and step-grandchildren, Paige Beron, Beau Beron, Hannah Dunn, Kolten Drake Dunn Carver, Lacey Shay Gregory and Bentley Lance Folls. Also mourning her loss is her mother, Mary Jane (Gregory) Alford; her sister, Kimberly Sue Blackburn (James) of Franklin, KY; her nieces, Jamie Blackburn and Jasmine Emmenegger; her nephew, J.R. Blackburn (Monica); as well as her grand-pups, Odie, Marley, and Lola.

Carol joins in eternal rest her father, James Kenneth Alford; her husband, Harris Wayne Carver; her daughter, Dana Carol Alford; and her brother, James Ray Gregory.

Visitation will take place at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory in Franklin, KY on Thursday, May 21st, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm and on Friday, May 22nd, 2026, from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm. The funeral service will be held at the same location on Friday, May 22nd, 2026, at 1:00 pm. Interment will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, KY.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. More information can be found on their website at www.gilbertfhonline.com, their Facebook page, or by calling the obituary phone line at 270-586-8844.

Carol will be dearly missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and community spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.