Emma Carolyn Braswell

Emma Carolyn Braswell, a beloved figure in her community and a devoted family matriarch, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on November 10, 1931, in Sallis, MS, she was the daughter of Owen Gilbert and Lucille Poole Gilbert.

Carolyn dedicated an impressive 47 years of her life to serving the Hinds County school system as a school bus driver, a role in which she became a familiar and cherished presence for generations of students. She had a deep affection for her community and took great pride in her work, establishing connections that would last a lifetime.

Carolyn had a particular passion for gardening, where she nurtured homegrown vegetables with love. In her leisure time, she found joy in crocheting and completing word searches, activities that brought her peace and satisfaction.

Carolyn’s fondness for Little Debbie Nutty Buddy snack cakes was well-known among her family, who often shared laughter and stories around her kitchen table. A self-proclaimed wrestling fan, she enjoyed watching her favorite matches on television, sharing that excitement with friends and family during visits. Her home was a gathering place for loved ones, and she relished the time spent with those who visited.

She is survived by a loving family who will miss her deeply: her daughter, Susan Johnson (Joe); her sons; Wesley Braswell (Debbi) and Todd Braswell (Lori), daughter-in-law, Kay Braswell; her grandsons; Brian Johnson, Tony Braswell, and Ryan Braswell (Patty); granddaughters, Christy Burkes (Buddy) and Kalee Rongey (Josh); as well as great grandchildren; Stephen Braswell (Alanna), Faith Harrison (Liam), Anna Burkes, Emily Diffin (Dylan), Alex Burkes, Layla Franks, Austin Johnson, Isabella Johnson, Laurel Franks, Weston Braswell, Cooper Rongey, Olivia Rongey, Bristol Braswell, Kendall Rongey, Micah Braswell, and Finley Braswell, and great great grandchildren; Callan Braswell, Delilah Diffin, and Jay Oliver Braswell, all of who were the light of her life.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Owen and Lucille Gilbert; her husband, Oliver Thurman Braswell; her daughter, Carolyn "Ann" Kilpatrick; her son, Lamar Braswell; her brother, Grady Gilbert; sisters Lola Ward, Elizabeth Shaw, and Sarah Linton; and her granddaughter, Carrie Franks.

As we remember Carolyn Braswell, we celebrate a life dedicated to family, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to those she served. Her legacy of love will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.