Carolyn Ann Reynolds Willard Larance, 79, peacefully passed from this earth into the gates of heaven on Jan. 6, 2026, at her home in Texas.
She was born Oct. 15, 1946, to Robert Reynolds and Mel is sa Pike Reynolds.
Growing up in Warren, Arkansas, She was a beautiful blend of tomboy tendencies and princess proper. Driven by a tough and ambitious spirit, she set out to pursue her dreams. She possessed a lovely soprano voice, a passion for singing and a gift for music that allowed her to play any instrument set before her.
She began her career as a band director before following her passion for mathematics. Over 44 years of teaching in Texas and Arkansas— both in the classroom and at home—she touched countless lives.
Mom taught us that family is defined by more than just blood. Her love for Jesus Christ and faith in Him through a personal relationship, instilled in her that love and understanding of family. Anyone who knew mom was touched by her smile, her honesty, her infectious laugh and her sincere desire to make others better.
She was talented, hardworking and lived a life full of purpose. As the matriarch of our family, she led with a gentle yet fierce heart.
Mom’s devotion to living life and serving others is who God called her to be. She will forever live in our hearts and minds through the lasting imprint she left on everyone she met.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Melissa Reynolds; a brother Bobbie Reynolds; the father of her children, John Willard Jr.; her beloved husband, Thomas Larance; her son, Jason Thomas Willard; granddaughter-in-law Michelle Rangel; and many others she so dearly loved.
She is survived by her children, John Willard (B.J.), Steven Willard, William Ehl and wife Ronna, Laura Lynn West and husband Tim; beloved daughter-in-law, Holly Willard; grandchildren Sissy Willard, Christian Willard, Chasity Willard, Sierra Willard, Thomas Jason Willard, Kolton Willard, Georgia Willard, Braxton and Lexi, Nathaniel Rangel, Juachin Ethan Rangel and wife Mersedes, Seth Rangel and fiance Marissa; many great-grandchildren; a sister, Pamela Reeves; a brother Doug Reynolds and wife Teresa; also, beloved nieces, nephews, many extended family members and friends whom she loved so dearly.
Funeral services will be held at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Rockdale on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.
The viewing will begin at 10 a.m. with the service to follow at 11, with Ron McCoy officiating. Burial will follow at Black Jack Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Steven Willard, Thomas Willard, William Ehl, Nathaniel Rangel, Juachin Ethan Rangel and Loren Simank.