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Carolyn M. Rowlands passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, in San Jose, California, after a long and courageous battle with Huntington’s Disease. She was 87 years old. Carolyn was born on March 8, 1938, the youngest of four children born to the late Lena E. and Robert E. Tibbet. She grew up in Turlock, California, where the values of family, hard work, and devotion to loved ones took deep root and guided her throughout her life. On January 19, 1957, Carolyn was united in marriage to the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Rowlands, in Minden, Nevada. Together they shared a deeply loving and devoted union that spanned 45 years. Bob proudly served in the United States Air Force for 21 years, and Carolyn lovingly supported him throughout his military career, moving with him to various bases across the country. Through every transition, she created a warm and steady home for her family. Her whole life and purpose were centered around those she loved, and nowhere was that more evident than in the home she built—one filled with comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. Carolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bob; her daughter Theresa Lynn; her granddaughter Ashlyn Ayers; her sisters Elda Bernice and Clarice Elaine; and her brother Bobby. She is survived by four children: Gregory Scott and his wife Colleen of Marcy, NY; Steven of Prescott, Arizona; Sherri Ayers of San Jose, CA; and Robert of Oakland, CA. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Elliott Lindsay and his wife Jessie; Tia Lyn Moreau; Kyle Rowlands and his wife Kelsey; Shannon Epstein and her husband Jason; and Ian Ayers. Carolyn was further blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Eli Lindsay; Harley, Logan, and Lukas Buttenschon; Scarlett and Delilah Epstein; and Ezekiel Rowlands; and many nieces and nephews. For many years, Carolyn worked in the Commissary at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, New York, where she formed a lifelong friendship with her very best friend, Bridget Libby—one that brought her great joy and companionship. Carolyn was an amazing woman whose kindness, humility, and boundless love touched everyone she met. Selfless and endlessly giving, she always placed the needs of her family before her own. Her strength was gentle, her heart generous, and her presence a source of comfort to all. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. Her legacy of love lives on through her family, who were the greatest joy of her life. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a funeral service to follow from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Turlock Funeral Home, in the Small Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. at Turlock Memorial Park. Those wishing to make a donation in Carolyn's memory, please consider the Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA), San Francisco Bay Area Chapter: https://give.hdsa.org/team/803292. Her family will be taking part in the San Jose Team Hope Walk/Run in May 2026 in her honor, and would greatly appreciate your support.

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Carolyn M. Rowlands

March 8, 1938 - January 29, 2026