Carolyn Delores Belonio's Obituary
Carolyn Delores Belonio, age 82, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026.
Born in Mount Airy, North Carolina, Carolyn was the cherished daughter of Rufus Fletcher Vernon and Irene Cornelia Williamson Vernon. She devoted her life to her family as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker. Her greatest joy came from caring for those she loved and creating a home filled with warmth, kindness, and unconditional love.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Carolyn was a devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her faith was the foundation of her life and was reflected in the compassion, grace, and quiet strength she shared with everyone around her. She lived with a servant's heart, always placing the needs of others before her own.
Above all else, Carolyn treasured the time she spent with her family. Whether it was a holiday gathering, a simple meal together, or watching her grandchildren grow, those moments brought her the greatest happiness. She was happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren, and they will forever remember the love, encouragement, and unwavering support she gave so freely.
Carolyn is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, Samuel Orquiola Belonio; her daughters, Pamela Pries (Howard Pries), Angela Ouellette (Ron Ouellette), and Lisa Pennington (Jonathan Pennington); her cherished grandchildren, Nathan Pennington (Brooklyn Pennington), Samantha Pennington (Nolan Pestana), Jake Pennington, and Brandon Ouellette; her sister, Judy James (Bill James); and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rufus Vernon and Irene Cornelia Williamson Vernon; her brothers, Benny Vernon and Johnny Vernon; and her sister, JoAnn Grobmyer.
Carolyn will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering faith, generous heart, and steadfast devotion to her family. She had a remarkable ability to make others feel loved and welcomed, and her kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Whether through a comforting word, a warm meal, or a simple act of kindness, she demonstrated Christ's love in her daily life. Her greatest legacy was the love she poured into her family and the example of faith she set for future generations.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carolyn's life on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service beginning at 12:00 p.m.
Following the service, Carolyn will be laid to rest at West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, where she will be buried with the honor afforded to the spouse of her beloved husband, a proud United States Navy veteran.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the many expressions of love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Carolyn's life was a testament to faith, family, and selfless love, and her memory will forever remain a blessing to those who knew and loved her.
"For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God. And the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words."
— 1 Thessalonians 4:16–18 (KJV)
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