Carol Peterson Bodiford, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and teacher, peacefully passed away on August 1, 2023 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 83 years, 10 months, 15 days.
Born on September 17, 1939 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to John Quinton and Mildred Kathryn Koon Peterson. On July 29, 1963, Carol married the love of her life, Carroll Franklin Bodiford Sr., with whom she shared many wonderful years. Although Carroll passed away on December 9, 2006, their deep connection and cherished memories continued to fill Carol’s heart.
A dedicated educator with a passion for guiding young minds, Carol graduated from Blue Mountain College and served as a teacher for McNairy County Board of Education for an impressive 26 years. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom walls as she shared her profound knowledge of the Bible with her Sunday school classes at HIS church in Selmer. Carol’s desire to inspire others fueled her love of teaching and touched the lives of countless students and congregation members.
When not immersed in teaching or studying scripture, Carol found solace in the simple joys of life. An avid reader with an insatiable curiosity for the written word, she could often be seen delving into books or completing crossword puzzles. In addition to her literary pursuits, Carol held a special place in her heart for Braves baseball.
However, among all of Carol’s passions and hobbies, nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with her beloved grandchildren. Their laughter filled her days with warmth and tenderness. Whether it was watching movies together or engaging in playful activities, these precious moments created lasting memories and deepened the bond between generations.
Left to cherish her memory is two sons, Carroll Franklin (Chuck) Bodiford Jr. and wife Vickie (Knight) of Selmer, TN and their four children, Alex King and wife Autumn of Selmer, TN, Cody Smith and wife Lisa of Ramer, TN, Brianna Nicole Stanley and husband Tyler of Corinth, MS, Caitlyn Elizabeth Bodiford of Jackson, TN;
Derek Quinton Bodiford and wife Sallie (Simpson) of Selmer, TN and their five children, Clara Ann Coyle and husband Jesse of Bethel Springs, TN, William Chase Bodiford, Callie Paige Bodiford, Chloe Elise Bodiford, Catherine Grace Bodiford;
two sisters, Kathryn Quinn DeBey of San Antonio, TX, Connie Jones of Selmer, TN; five great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Carol Peterson Bodiford was preceded in death by her father John Quinton Peterson; mother Mildred Kathryn Koon Kendrick; stepfather Roy Kendrick; and brother Carl Lamar “Bubba” Peterson.
While she now rests peacefully in eternity alongside loved ones who have gone before her, the impact of Carol’s life will continue to resonate and inspire future generations.
