January 10, 2025, 77, La Grange —
April 16, 1947 – January 10, 2025
Audrey Carol Herring Bartlett, 77, stepped into life everlasting with her Heavenly Father on Friday, January 10, 2025 while in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family. Carol was born in Lenoir County to the late Edward Matchett and Audrey Suggs Herring on April 16, 1947. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Eddie and Myra Herring; and brother-in-law, Bobby Bartlett.
Teaching physical education for thirty-nine years, Carol spent a brief time in Virginia before working at Norwayne School in Wayne County. She went on to work at Eastern Wayne Elementary and La Grange Elementary before returning to Norwayne to finish her career. Coaching many different sports throughout her tenure, Carol made lasting relationships with her players and made sure to keep up with them through the years.
Constantly putting others before herself, Carol was happiest when she was helping someone. Full of love, she had a deep care that was evident not only in word, but also in deed. Friends, family, or stranger alike, her heart was always focused on how she could share the love of Christ through her actions.
A world traveler, Carol was always up for the next big adventure. No matter the destination, she was happy to be out and about experiencing the beauty found in God’s creation. Finding that same beauty at home, Carol loved flowers and made sure to keep her yard full of them.
A long-time member of White Oak Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church, Carol worshipped her Lord faithfully and made many great friendships with those in the congregation. Second only to her faith was love of her family. She loved deeply, and that love was never more evident than when she was spending time with her husband, daughters, and grandchildren. She took great pride in her roles as wife, Mama, and Mema.
A service of love and remembrance will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Bob Smith officiating. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Adam Brinkley officiating.
Carol is survived by her husband of over 47 years, Ronnie Bartlett; daughters, Elizabeth Bartlett and Dee Cox and husband, Brandon; grandchildren, Ann Matchett, Fletcher, and Jackson Cox; sister, Florence Smith and husband, Curtis; brother, Chubby Herring and wife, Paula; along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A time of visitation and fellowship will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home.
The family wishes to offer their deep appreciation to those who cared for Carol in her final days, including Debbie Anderson and the staff of Gentiva Hospice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to White Oak Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church, c/o Janet Brown, 1794 Jenny Lind Road, La Grange, NC 28551.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
