A Life Story

Guyton – Carolyn Phillips Edwards, 85, passed away June 14, 2026 at The Gardens Senior Living. The Chatham County native worked in the Cafeteria at Guyton Elementary for 27 years and was known for her famous pound cake and Lunchroom cinnamon rolls. She was an active member of New Providence Baptist Church where she was a dedicated member of the choir, served on the hospitality and social committees. She was a member of the Dixie Twirlers and loved playing bingo at the Effingham Recreation Department. Her greatest love was spending time with her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, William E. Phillips, Sr. and Edna Lee Phillips; siblings, William E. Phillips, Jr. (Marya), Betty Phillips Davis (Wilfred), and Mildred Phillips Douglas (Frank); daughter and son-in-law, Janet Edwards Scott and John P. Scott. Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Tarver L. “Tootsie” Edwards; children, Douglas M. Edwards (Denise), Susan E. Lancaster (Keith), and Brian A. Edwards (Tiffany); grandchildren, Ashley N. Scott, Landon A. Edwards, Amber Dyson (Clyde), Kristen Kessler (Corey), Lucy Writch, and Charlee Writch; great-grandchildren, Ansley Scott, Tucker Dyson, Taylor Martin, Caden Kessler, Brice Nettles, Brooklynn Kessler, Arrie Kessler, and Charleston Dyson; and a number of niece and nephews. The family would like to give a special thanks to all the staff at The Gardens and especially to her nurse, Kelly McAfee. Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Friday, June 19, 2026 at New Providence Baptist Church followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Guyton Cemetery. Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel. 912-754-6421