Carolyn Ensley, age 91, of the Newdale Community, was reunited with loved ones in Heaven on Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 at Mission Hospital. A native of Yancey County she was a daughter to the late Rositor “RT” Tullius and Tassie Mae Hall Ensley. In addition to her parents, Carolyn was also preceded in death by her sisters: Erma Parsley, Alma Roberts, Annie Hester and June McMahan; brothers-in-law: “RC” Parsley, John Paul Smith, Wilbur Roberts, Melvin Hester and Ted McMahan; and a niece Pat Styles.
Carolyn was a devoted and faithful woman whose life was centered around her family, her faith and serving others. A lifelong member of Newdale Presbyterian Church, she found great joy in worship and fellowship, especially through singing in the church choir and dedicating her time to the Lord’s work. Carolyn worked for many years at McCall’s Department Store, where she took great pride in her work. In her quieter moments, Carolyn was an avid reader who enjoyed many genres of books with a special love for Amish themed stories and Christian literature. She also enjoyed working crossword puzzles, always appreciating the simple pleasures of life.
Above all else, Carolyn dearly loved her family. She gave selflessly of her time, especially through the many years she devoted to caring for her mother. Her kindness, strength and unwavering devotion to those she loved will always be remembered by the family and friends whose lives she blessed so deeply.
Those who remain to honor Carolyn’s life are her nieces: Brenda Atchley (Gary) of Forest City, Sabra Bennett (Vernon) of Burnsville, Beth Hester (Louise) of Portsmouth, VA and Rachel Miller (Johnny) of Stallings; nephews, Gary McMahan of Burnsville and Bryan Hester of New York; two special cousins: Edna Earl Fox and Mary Jo Styles; and two dear friends that she cherished: Anita Fortner and Betty Towe.
Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at Newdale Presbyterian Church. Pastor Jim Taylor will be officiating the services. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services at the church. She will be laid to rest beside her mother in the Newdale Presbyterian Church Cemetery, following the funeral services.
Memorial donations in Carolyn’s memory can be made to Newdale Presbyterian Church at 71 Newdale Church Road, Burnsville, NC 28714. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.