Smyrna, TN – Smyrna community leader Carolyn Peebles has passed away. Her passing Saturday marks the loss of a deeply loved and respected soul whose life touched countless people and whose legacy of service and faith will continue to inspire.
For more than three decades, Carolyn served Living Truth Ministry with an unyielding spirit, becoming a “mother of the church” to her congregation. Her dedication extended beyond duty; it was a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. Carolyn’s warmth, kindness, and resilience left an indelible mark on the church and the Smyrna community.
Apostle Amos Howard, Dr. Yolanda Howard, and the Living Truth family reflected on her impact, saying, “She was more than a partner—she was a spiritual daughter, family member, and beacon of faith.”
As an active community leader, her voice became a powerful testament to faith in action, inspiring everyone around her with a compassionate heart and determined spirit.
The Smyrna Rotary Club is particularly devastated, as Carolyn was serving as President-Elect and had been a long-standing member who embodied the Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Fellow Rotarian and WGNS Roundtable co-host Wayne Blair said, "Carolyn was amazing woman of faith and an integral member of our Smyrna Rotary family! She will be sorely missed!” I don’t know what actually happened!"
Rick Hall, who is a Roundtable co-host and Rotarian alongside Blair said, "When you looked for someone that exemplified service above self. You didn’t have to look any further than Carolyn Peebles. I’m forever grateful to know her as my friend and fellow Rotarian. She will be missed by many . Her favorite statement at the end of every Rotary meeting was 'govern ourselves accordingly' We will do so now in your honor Carolyn. Rest In Peace."
State Representative Mike Sparks added, "Carolyn and I worked together at Nissan years ago and have been longtime Smyrna Rotarian members. She would often asked me to pray at our meetings. She was a strong women and most importantly a strong woman of faith. She will be greatly missed."
Area leaders are also speaking about Peebles. Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed, on Facebook, said, "We lost a good one today. I never saw Carolyn Peebles when she didn't have a smile on her face and a positive thing to say. The Town of Smyrna is a better place because of all she has done. Erika Peebles Shanklin, Britt and I are praying for you and your family."
Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr added, "Rutherford County is much better off because of my friend Carolyn Peebles. Well done 'good and faithful servant' and we will accept your admonition and rise to the challenge to “govern ourselves accordingly”. Rest In Peace. Micah 6:8."
Though her absence leaves a void, Carolyn Peebles' spirit, love, and devotion will continue to guide and uplift those who were blessed to know her.
