A Life Story
Carolyn Virginia Harrelson Fountain of Savannah, Georgia, passed peacefully into eternity at her home on October 4, 2026. Carolyn was a loving and cherished daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. But perhaps her favorite title of all was “Honey,” the name lovingly given to her by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many of their friends. Carolyn was born in Effingham County, Georgia, on June 8, 1935, to Eddie and Evelyn Harrelson. Although an only child, she was never lonely, as she was raised alongside her cousins, who were more like brothers and sisters. Her parents later moved to Savannah, where she attended 38th Street School and graduated from Savannah High School, where she was a very proud Blue Jacket. After high school, she attended Armstrong State College. Carolyn met and married Ralph Fountain in July 1954. They moved to Fayetteville, North Carolina, while Ralph served in the armed forces. They eventually returned to Savannah and began their family in June 1960 with the birth of Gene, followed by Jill and Edward. In addition to being a devoted mother, Carolyn dedicated much of her life to serving her church. She taught Preschool Choir and Sunday School at both Immanuel Baptist Church and Calvary. Church life was always important to Carolyn, beginning with the “Busy Bees” and Dr. Wilder at Calvary on Barnard Street. As an adult, she served as a member of the adult choir and continued teaching. In her later years, she served on the Senior Adult Council. Carolyn was also deeply involved in the ministries of Calvary Day School. She and Ralph were active in the Booster Club and spent many years preparing and frying chicken for the “Spring Fling” fundraiser. Her commitment to church life eventually became a career, as Carolyn served for 25 years as Church Administrator at Independent Presbyterian Church. Carolyn also devoted many years to serving her community through the Exchange Club of Savannah, Christian Women’s Clubs, and the Magnolia Park Neighborhood Association, where she served as president. She established a July 4th neighborhood parade that continues to this day—a lasting reminder of her love for community and bringing people together. But nothing gave Carolyn greater joy than her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Honey and Papa’s house was the mecca of fun, laughter, and love. The family gathered there every week for “Sunday Lunch,” and Honey’s home was always beautifully decorated for every holiday and celebration. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome, loved, and part of the family. Another of Carolyn’s great joys was The Magnolias. These eight dear friends followed their husbands all over the country for softball tournaments, raised their children together, and enjoyed countless girls’ weekends at Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, and Panama City Beach. They soaked up the sun, enjoyed shopping, and, most importantly, filled their time together with laughter and lifelong friendship. Carolyn was predeceased by her parents, her beloved husband Ralph, and her oldest son, Gene (Alison) Fountain. She is survived by her children, Jill Fountain Robertson (John) and Edward (Joann) Fountain; grandchildren Harris Fountain; Haley Fountain Finch (Hunter); Savage (Trey) Lynah; Artley Lynah; Kirsten Fountain Blocker (Adam); Kylee Fountain Rogers (Chris); and Kameron Fountain Allen (Matt); 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Compassus Hospice for their loving care, compassion, and support during Carolyn’s final year. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Calvary Church, Compassus Hospice, or the Exchange Club of Savannah. Carolyn leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, friendship, service, and love. Her home may no longer be filled with Sunday lunches, holiday decorations, laughter, and grandchildren, but the love she created there will live on in her family for generations to come.