Carolyn McGhee Danley's Obituary
Carolyn McGhee Danley passed away on May 24 leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering faith and love. Born on September 4,1966, Carolyn was the daughter of Eugene and Bess McGhee. She lived a life of deep purpose, and her impact on all who knew her is immeasurable.
Carolyn attended Harding Academy of Memphis. After graduating from the University of Memphis with a master’s degree in counseling, she began a career in higher education at Christian Brothers University. In 1997 she joined Baptist College of Health Sciences where she served for 18 years in a variety of roles. As Director of the Center of Academic Excellence she founded and directed the Student Learning Center, creating a place of academic support and encouragement for students.
During this time, Carolyn also volunteered as a counselor for Camp Good Grief, helping children and teens find comfort and connection after the loss of loved ones. This work led her to her find her passion and true calling.
After years as a dedicated volunteer, Carolyn officially joined the staff at the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief in 2016. As a grief counselor she supported countless individuals and families through life’s most challenging times—always with deep empathy, wisdom, and care. In addition to individual counseling, she served as a community educator leading training sessions and workshops throughout the area. She was a natural leader with a deep commitment to helping others understand the grief experience and equipping them to respond to grief with compassion and love.
Carolyn’s heart for service extended far beyond her professional career. She was a member of Hope Presbyterian Church where she served as a Stephen Ministry leader, providing counseling to people in need of support. She also led women’s Bible Study groups and created the GriefShare program at the church. Her faith and her quiet strength offered encouragement to many.
As a member of Junior League of Memphis for more than 25 years, Carolyn served in leadership positions including Community Director, President-Elect, and President. She was part of the JLM team that developed the G.R.O.W program, providing educational and enrichment programs for families in the Binghampton community, and she spearheaded the Develop Her Women’s Summit which has become an annual, sold-out fundraiser supporting the JLM.
Carolyn cherished time with family and friends. She had a gift for hospitality and enjoyed hosting, serving, and sharing life with others. She found deep joy and peace at the beach. The beaches along 30-A were her happy place—a setting where she felt closest to God. Her faith, joy and kindness, along with the way she showed up for people, made everyone feel valued.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her father Eugene McGhee, father-in-law Dr. Elzie Danley and mother in-law, Dottie Danley. She is survived by her devoted husband Dr. Lee Danley, mother Bess McGhee, brothers Steve McGhee (Jacque) and Mike McGhee (Pat); children Lee (Sanna), Liesl, Leah and Leal; grandchildren Delaney, Anden, Annie,
Ellie, Bella and Blaine; nieces Lauren, Hannah, and Madison, and nephews Chris and Cooper.
A service celebrating her life will be held on Monday, June 2 at Hope Presbyterian Church in the South Hall, 8500 Walnut Grove Road; Visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. To reflect Carolyn’s joyful spirit, guests are encouraged to wear happy, spring colors.
The family welcomes donations to the memorial fund created in Carolyn’s name at the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief. Gifts can be made online at baptistgriefcenters.org/give, or by mail - 1520 West Poplar Avenue, Collierville, TN 38017.
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