Ida Carolyn Ballard Braswell

Columbia.... Ida Carolyn Ballard Braswell, age 80, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on March 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Carolyn lived a life rooted in faith, guided by grace, and marked by service. Her unwavering belief in Jesus Christ was the foundation of every decision she made, and her life reflected His love through her kindness, strength, and devotion to others.

A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Carolyn faithfully served the students and staff of Dothan City Schools for over 30 years as a school psychologist and test coordinator. She earned multiple administrative and counseling degrees from Troy University and was a steadfast advocate for students, counselors, and fairness in due process hearings. Her legacy in education includes her instrumental role in establishing the alternative school for at-risk students, offering hope and opportunity to those who needed it most.

Following her retirement, Carolyn continued her calling to serve through the Alabama State Department of Education, where she worked with school systems in need of guidance and restoration. Her wisdom and leadership were a blessing to many across the state. Above all, Carolyn’s greatest ministry was her family. With a servant's heart and Christ-like love, she later devoted herself to caring for her aging parents. She was the heart of her family, the one who held everyone together through prayer, encouragement, and unconditional love. She will forever be remembered as a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, faithful servant, and trusted friend.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Sam, and Sarah Thompson; her brother, Sam D. Thompson, Jr.; her sister, Jackie Thompson Armagost; and the father of her two daughters, Cletus J. Ballard.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith and love in her surviving family: her husband, Remer Braswell of Dothan; her daughters, Janet Bradley (Bruce), and Jennifer Matheny (Jim); seven grandchildren, Christopher Matheny (Kenna), Elizabeth Bradley, Benjamin Bradley, Jennifer Bradley, Alan Matheny, Matthew Matheny, and Michael Matheny; and her great-grandson, Elijah Matheny.

Each of them carries forward her example of faith, strength, and love. A graveside service will be held at Columbia Cemetery in Columbia, Alabama, on Monday, March 23rd at 10:30 A.M., with a celebration of her life and the promise of eternal hope through Christ. Friends and family may gather at 110 Boardwalk Place, where the family will be receiving visitors.