Obituary: Carolyn Cole Dunn

Kinston – Carolyn Cole Dunn, 85, passed away on May 11, 2026, in Goldsboro, NC.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 6-7 PM at Edwards Funeral Home in Kinston, NC, with the service to follow immediately after.

Carolyn “Mom” was born on December 9, 1940, in Kinston during her youth and later joined Bethel Free Will Baptist Church as an adult. In later years, she attended Daystar Ministries. She found joy in fishing, spending time with her family, and loving on her puppy dogs. Her greatest happiness came from being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and dearly loved friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Dunn, and his daughter, Terry Dunn Wetherignton; her parents; her sisters, Betty Keaton of High Point, and Ina Jonestone of Sanford; her brother, Tommy Cole of Goldsboro; her granddaughter, Kari Summerlin Elwart of Kinston; and bonus stepchild Todd Summerlin of Atlantic Beach.

Throughout her life, Carolyn built a large and loving family and never saw the difference between her children, stepchildren, and bonus family. She is survived by her children from three marriages; Cissy Kennedy (Bernie), Jeff Summerlin (Jayne), Eddie Summerlin, Lori Harrell, Deborah Dunn Grimes (David), Shannon Summerlin (Walt), and Marvin Dunn, Jr. She also leaves behind 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and multiple beloved puppy dogs.

Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be made at www.edwardsfhc.com.