Carolyn Lilly McDaniel Edwards entered the world on October 5, 1939, to the parentage of SaLillian and Dwight Lilly, Sr., in Gary, Texas. She received her formative education from New Salem Elementary and Turner High School. Carolyn furthered her education receiving a business school certification. She was a career employee for the Dallas County Sheriff's Department, serving numerous roles for 32 years until her retirement. She went on to work for the Dallas Urban League retiring after 12 years of service. As a young woman, Carolyn met and married James McDaniel, Sr. This union was enriched with five remarkable blessings: Phyllis, Sheila, James, Jr., Kenneth, and Chequetta. Later, on Dec. 25, 1973, she and her children joined life with Clarence Edwards and his four daughters, Donna, Barbara, Pamela, and Michelle. The Edwards shared thirty-seven beautiful years together until his passing, a testament to their enduring love and commitment. Carolyn accepted Christ at an early age and dedicated her life to serving God and others. She was a faithful member of Gilgal Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor L.J. Johnson, Sr.; Sure Foundation Baptist Church, led by Dr. Maurice Ricks; and Wiley Chapel Baptist Church, pastored by Rev. E. Williams. In each of these congregations, Carolyn shared her God-given gift as a musician, using her talent to uplift worship and touch hearts. Her music was more than notes—it was ministry. At Wiley Chapel, she also served as head of the financial ministry, showing her devotion in every aspect of church life. Beyond the walls of the church, Carolyn poured into others by teaching piano and voice to countless students. Through her guidance, choirs, praise teams, musical groups, and individuals flourished, and her influence will live on in every song sung and every life she touched. Carolyn's legacy is one of faith, service, and love expressed through music and the expressions of charity exhibited throughout her faith walk. Her compassion knew no bounds. She was always ready to help anyone in need—offering a comforting hand, a safe place to stay, a meal to share, or whatever support she could give. Carolyn was preceded in eternal rest by her husband Clarence E. Edwards; Parents - SaLillian and Dwight M. Lilly, Sr.,; Brothers – Dwight Jr., Federick, Roland Sr., and William Lilly; Sisters – Esther Champion, Velma Douglas, and Artrice Parker; Son – James McDaniel, Jr.; Daughter - Chequetta McDaniel and grandson Michael Coleman, Jr. She leaves to carry on her legacy and cherish her memory: Sisters Lydia McLemore and Barbara (James) McDaniel; devoted children - Phyllis (Michael) Coleman, Sheila McDaniel, and Rev. Kenneth (Karen) McDaniel; Donna (Matthew) Smith-Forman, Barbara Robertson, Pamela (Jarise) Cartwright, and Michelle (Wilburn) Johnson; a host of godchildren, grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, other relatives, colleagues, neighbors and friends. Carolyn, you have fought the good fight, you have finished your race, you have kept the faith. Now there is in store for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to you. 2 Timothy 4: 7-8 (NIV). Now take your rest, you will forever be remembered and missed by your family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.