After a life filled with love, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family Carolyn Ann Harger passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, at the age of 83.

Carolyn was born in Dighton, Kansas, to Fern Louise and Earnest August Wilbert. Soon after, her family moved to Alexandria, Louisiana, where she was raised alongside her three sisters in a close-knit family. She was a dedicated Catholic whose faith in God became the foundation of her life. Carolyn carried her faith with her each day, allowing it to guide the way she loved, served, and cared for others.

She graduated from Holy Savior Menard High School, where she was honored as the Key Club Sweetheart. Carolyn continued her education at the University of Southwestern Louisiana, where she was a proud member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, where she created friendships and memories she cherished throughout her life. There, she earned a bachelor’s degree in education before earning a master’s degree in special education from Louisiana State University. Carolyn dedicated 30 years to teaching elementary special education, where she found great joy in helping children learn, grow, and discover their potential. Her patience, compassion, and unwavering belief in every child left a lasting impact on the countless students and families whose lives she touched.

Throughout her life, Carolyn shared an extraordinary bond with her sisters Marilyn, Sharon, and Arlene. Together, they were affectionately known as the “Wonderful Wilberts,” a name that reflected the love, laughter, and unbreakable connection they shared. Whether celebrating holidays, birthdays, or life’s everyday moments, they rarely missed an opportunity to gather, decorate, and create lasting memories. Their time together was always filled with joy, traditions, and abiding love for one another that remained constant throughout their lives.

Carolyn’s greatest joy in life was being a mother to her sons, Beau and Ben, whom she was endlessly proud of. She shared a uniquely close bond with each of them, one built on unconditional love, constant support, and genuine friendship. She made every holiday magical, celebrated every milestone with heartfelt enthusiasm, and never missed an opportunity to decorate and go all out celebrating their accomplishments. Whether it was cheering on their favorite sports teams, attending concerts, catching a movie, or sharing a meal at their favorite restaurant, Superior Grill, the time they spent together was never taken for granted. Carolyn treasured the close relationship she shared with her boys, whose love brought her endless joy throughout her life.

Carolyn is lovingly survived by her sons, Beau and his wife, SuEllen, and Ben Harger and his wife, Celine; her sisters, Marilyn Wilbert and Arlene Ryder; and her cherished grandson, Reid.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fern Louise and Earnest August Wilbert; and her beloved sister, Sharon Andrew, who passed away nearly 24 hours before. Their lifelong bond remained until the very end.

Carolyn’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Elizabeth Jarrell, who was more than just a caregiver. She became a cherished friend and beloved member of Carolyn’s family. Carolyn’s family will always be grateful for the compassion, kindness, and unwavering care Elizabeth gave so generously.

Visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70816, on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 445 Marquette Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 2:30 p.m.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.