Carolyn Shelton Croft

Carolyn S. Croft, 81, of Delano, passed away peacefully at home on March 12, 2026. Born on December 22, 1944, she lived her entire life in Delano. A graduate of Polk County High School, Carolyn excelled on the basketball court during her school years. She held several jobs throughout her life, cherishing most her time at East Tennessee Sod and Seeding and her 20-year career with the Tennessee Department of Transportation, from which she retired.

Carolyn devoted her free time to her family, enjoying Saturday yard sales and relaxing on the porch swing on Sundays as loved ones gathered to visit. Known as a true “firecracker,” she took great pride in the life she built with her husband, Jerry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Monroe and Ina Shelton; her husband, Jerry Croft; her four brothers, Cleetus, Dawn, Winston, and James Shelton; and her grandson, Garret Croft.

Carolyn is survived by her sister, Kathy Shaw; her four children, Tammy McCullough, Kim (Derick) White, Mickey (Chastity) Croft, and Nick (Hannah) Croft; ten grandchildren, Jeremy (Amanda) White, Whitney (Bubba) Morgan, Caytie McCullough, Will (Caitlyn) White, Joe (Abby) Croft, Tillmon (Addison) Devaney, Elijah (Sydney) Croft, Addyson McCullough (JJ Devoer), Malik Croft, Chaunte Sharp, and Chablee Sharp; and nine great-grandchildren, Malayna, Beau, Josie, Deacon, Corie, Harper, Adalee, Aubrie, and Josie. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish her memory. Those who knew Carolyn will remember her sharp sense of humor, intelligence, and loving heart.