September 15, 2023, 79, Seven Springs —

September 29, 1943 – September 15, 2023

Paulette Melton Carlyle, 79, exchanged the bonds of this earth for the joys of life eternal on Friday, September 15, 2023. Paulette was born in Onslow County to the late Ernest and Irene Padgett Melton on September 29, 1943. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Carlyle; sister, Margaret Tucker; parents, Irene and Ernest Melton; and sister-in-law, Angie Melton.

Known for her demeanor that exemplified the life of a true Christian, Paulette was sweet, loving, and kind. Whether in the company of friends and family or even strangers, those around her experienced her love through her generous spirit, shining blue eyes, and beautiful smile. Never one to meet a stranger, Paulette could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them feel instantly at ease. Harsh words were simply not part of her vocabulary, and her personality didn’t allow for anger or bitterness. Paulette was a faithful servant of God, attending Glen Raven Baptist Church any time the doors were open.

When Paulette and Dick’s daughter, Paula, was young, Paulette found interest in the things of youth, joining right in with Paula with whatever she was doing. Paulette became just another kid as she played in the yard with the kids, and none could beat her in the game of kickball. She was always on the go, spending as much time with her family as she could. Weekly shopping trips were commonplace as Paulette joined her mother and daughter in a three-generation trio.

Paulette’s skills in the kitchen were not unnoticed. Though the family often looked forward to her great dishes, they couldn’t assume the food was for them. Her heart for stray animals saw her take in many dogs, and her cooking was just as much for them as it was for her family.

Though short in stature, Paulette’s legs were long enough to ensure great speed on the highway. Known for her lead foot, the younger members of her family loved the thrill of riding along with her as each tiny bump felt like a full-fledged roller coaster.

Dedicated to her work, Paulette served many years as a lab technician at Glen Raven Mills. Never missing a day of work, her coworkers became friends as they shared day-to-day life. Payday was the day that Paulette splurged a bit on herself, as a trip to the local record store helped her generate a vast collection of 45’s containing the hits of all her favorite country music stars.

Country music was one of many loves, as Paulette also enjoyed her Almond Joy candy bars and watching wrestling on television. When things got out of hand in the wrestling ring, Paulette became a referee from home as she shouted back at the wrestlers with her view of the match.

The love of family made all other loves fail in comparison. The relationship that Paulette shared with her husband was one that any married couple would love to emulate, and she was simply the best mother. Though her life and the lives of her family members were forever changed after Paulette’s car accident 28 years ago, the whole family is thankful for the years she was granted after her life was spared.

A service of love and remembrance will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Gene Miller officiating. The family will receive friends in the hour before the service. Committal will follow the service at Westview Cemetery in Kinston.

Paulette is survived by her daughter, Paula Mercer; grandchildren, Brandon Manning and fiancée, Sarah Calkin, Kristen Cook, Stacy Cook, and Parker Mercer; great-grandchildren, Mia, Riley, and Jonathan; brother, Jimmy Melton; sister, Carol Doran, and husband, Curtis; along with many special nieces and nephews.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.