Carolyn Ruth Anderson

Carolyn Ruth Anderson (Kumorek), 71, of Karbers Ridge, IL went to be with her Heavenly Father on March 24, 2021. She was born on May 11, 1949 to Joseph and Patsy Kumorek (Crafton) in Herrin, IL.

Carolyn started her life growing up in Stiritz (Johnston City), IL and later her family moved to the place she came to love in Hardin County, IL. She graduated from Cave-In-Rock High School in 1967 and followed on to obtain her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in 1973.

In 1968, Carolyn married Deneen Anderson, who was the love of her life for over 40 years. They had two children, Christy and Jason, and 6 grandchildren.

Carolyn then began what became more than a career as she helped educate the young minds of the children of Hardin County, first at the former elementary school in Karbers Ridge, IL then transferring to the Hardin County Unit School District. She enjoyed teaching and coaching girls’ basketball at all grade levels. Carolyn defined the very nature of what a teacher should be, showing not only the mentorship and caring in the classroom, but within her community. She eventually retired after devoting over 30 years to the “future of Hardin County” as she would say.

Anyone who knew Carolyn would say her free time was devoted to two loves, horses and people. Carolyn loved riding her horses and during the summer would normally be found on a trail in Southern Illinois or at the Nine Day Trail Ride, which she attended for many years. As her family would tell you, she never met a stranger. Carolyn was a very outgoing person who thrived on the conversation with others and the love of family. She was always one of the first people to step up to assist within anyone in her community that fell on hard times.

Carolyn is survived by her daughter, son, 6 grandchildren, brother (Michael Kumorek), and sister (Kim Dowdy). She is also survived by her 3 nieces and 1 nephew that she adored. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother (Thomas Kumorek).

Visitation will be Saturday, April 10th from 5pm to 8pm at the Hardin County Funeral Service, 267 Stone Church Road, Rosiclare, IL.

Funeral services will be on Sunday, April 11th at 2pm at the Hardin County Funeral Service with a family graveside service to follow.

The family would like to thank: Star Church and The Roads Church for all the love; Reflections assisted living for the amazing care Mom received; Saline County Ambulance and Air Evac for their timely and accurate emergency care; and the Harrisburg Medical Center for the perfect and compassionate medical care in a difficult situation, making a difference by making us feel like family every step of the way. Lastly, we would like to thank the people of Hardin County for the blessing they have been over the years to our mother and our family. There is truly no place like home.