Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our beloved Carol Ann Olson, who passed away on March 27, 2025. She was more than a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—she was the heart of our family, the steady foundation upon which we built our lives.
Carol Ann was born April 09, 1947 to Michael Morris and Eileen Wilkinson Morris in Natick, Massachusetts. Carol graduated from Natick High School before setting out on a journey that would define her beautiful life. Seeking a fresh start, she and her son Steven moved to Columbus, Georgia, with her uncle. It was there that fate brought her to the love of her life, Mark Royce Olson. From the moment they met, their love was undeniable—a bond so deep and pure that nothing in this world could compare. Together, they built a life full of adventure, traveling to Germany during Mark’s time in the Army, where they welcomed their son, Jason Mark Olson. Though their hearts knew the pain of loss with the passing of their daughter, Dawn Marie Olson, Carol’s love never wavered; she remained a pillar of strength, always pouring her heart into her family.
Carol’s love story with Mark was one out of a Hallmark movie. She adored him beyond words, always finding joy in making each other smile. Whether they were antiquing, watching wildlife from their living room, or simply sitting side by side, their love was constant, unwavering, and pure. To Carol, there was no man greater than Mark—he was her soulmate, her best friend, and the love of her life.
Carol found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. She cherished her soap operas, collecting beautiful treasures like Wedgwood pieces, Hummels, and Boyd’s Bears, and most of all, the time spent with her family. After years of dedicated work at the Ft. Benning commissary, she retired to devote herself fully to her granddaughter, Natalie Marie Olson. Carol and Mark later adopted Natalie, a testament to the immense love they shared for her. Carol’s world revolved around her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—they were her greatest pride and her deepest joy.
One of Carol’s favorite things was spending time with Natalie, whether they were shopping, laughing, or simply enjoying each other’s company. Every moment with her was a treasure, every laugh a gift. Carol had a way of making those around her feel loved beyond measure, and her absence leaves a void that can never be filled.
Carol leaves behind a family who adored her, including her loving husband Mark, her children Steven Olson (Karen) and Jason Olson, her beloved granddaughter Natalie Marie Olson (Michael), Jessica Chadwick, Lawrence Chadwick, Kaitlyn Olson, her cherished great-grandchildren Bennett Hayes Austin, Aniston Marie Gayles, Carter Grace Williamson and Johnathan Chadwick as well as many friends and family. While we mourn the loss of her presence, we find comfort in knowing that her love remains with us, woven into the fabric of our lives.
A service to honor Carol’s beautiful life will be held 10:00am on April 23, 2025 at Striffler-Hamby 3770 Hwy 431 North, Phenix City, AL 36867, The family will receive friends from 9:00am until 10:00am. Burial will follow at Main Post Cemetery, Fort Benning, GA.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor her memory by showing love and kindness to those around you just as she did every day of her life.
Rest peacefully, Nanny. As long as I’m living your memory will too. I promise to teach my babies everything you taught me and to never quit making you proud. -Natalie
