Carolyn H. Mathas, born Carolyn Swann Howard, silently broke the chains of this life and ascended into Heaven, while fireworks celebrated freedom on the 4th of July. She was 81 and timeless.

Carolyn was born premature, the "miracle baby" of Elsie & W. Vance Howard on March 23, 1929, in Charlotte, NC. She grew up in Cary, NC, where she graduated high school. Subsequently, she graduated with a BA in education, and settled in DeLand, FL.

Without a doubt, Carolyn's love for children dictated her career. Teaching elementary school age children with patience, love, and understanding, endeared her to several generations of now-adult children. She began teaching in Williamsburg, VA, and later taught business in Tampa. Most of her 30 year career was spent as a second grade teacher at George Marks Elementary School, DeLand, from 1970 until her retirement in 1995.

She was a long time member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, as well as the BF Chapter of PEO. She was honored by her peers as Teacher of the Year in 1985. Retirement gave her the opportunity to reach her greatest degree of personal fulfillment, by being board chairman for 6 of the 8 years she served at the First Presbyterian Day School in DeLand. She was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church, where she proudly served as a Deacon.

She was also a member of the Pansy Garden Circle, as well as the Junior Service League. Carolyn is survived by her son, Bill Mathas.

There will be a memorial service at First Presbyterian Church in DeLand, on Saturday, July 17 at 10am. Rev. Richard Hills will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 988 Woodcock Road, Ste. 200, Orlando, FL 32803. Allen Summerhill is in charge.