It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Carolyn Marie (Fisher) Waddington on March 9, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Born on November 12, 1942, to H.L. and Marie Fisher, Carolyn grew up surrounded by family, friends, and a community that fostered her lifelong love of learning, service, and connection.
A devoted educator, Carolyn earned her degree in Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and dedicated her life to nurturing young minds. She spent ten impactful years teaching at Castleton United Methodist Church’s nursery school, where her warmth, patience, and kindness shaped the lives of countless children. Beyond the classroom, Carolyn contributed to her church community by singing in the choir and volunteering at annual events, including the beloved fish fry, where her generosity and cheerful spirit left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Carolyn met her life partner, James Waddington, in Little Rock, and they married on June 13, 1964. Together, they built a family rooted in love and faith. Carolyn was a devoted mother to her sons, James Hugh Waddington (Jodi) and Justin Heath Waddington (Leyla), celebrating their achievements and guiding them through life’s challenges with unwavering support. Her grandchildren, Jocie and Jolee Waddington, brought immense joy to her later years, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Beyond her family and teaching, Carolyn worked at Affiliated Foods of Little Rock from 1999 until 2010 as a receptionist. Her professionalism, warmth, and welcoming demeanor made her beloved by colleagues. Even after retirement, she remained active in her community, known for her generosity, kindness, and culinary talents, which brought friends and neighbors together and created lasting memories.
Carolyn will be remembered for her laughter, her quiet strength, and her ability to make everyone feel valued. Her life exemplified compassion, dedication, and love, leaving a profound impact on family, friends, colleagues, and students alike.
She is preceded in death by her parents, H.L. and Marie Fisher, and is survived by her husband James Waddington, her sons James Hugh and Justin Heath Waddington, daughter-in-law Jodi, grandchildren Jocie and Jolee, and countless friends and neighbors whose lives she enriched.
Visitation and memorial arrangements will be announced by the family. All are encouraged to honor Carolyn by celebrating her life, cherishing loved ones, and living with kindness and generosity.
Rest in peace, Carolyn Marie Waddington. Your love, spirit, and generosity will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew you.
