Carolyn Rae DeFord

Carolyn Rae McLaughlin DeFord, 87, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 28, 2026, in Amarillo, TX. Carolyn was born and raised in Texas and Jesus saved. Carolyn was born July 12, 1939, in Pampa, TX to Raymond and Juanita McLaughlin.

Carolyn met her husband Buddy DeFord of 63 years through a fortuitus meeting. They were married just one year later on June 15, 1963. They had two children, Zac in 1970 and Ashley in 1973.

Carolyn was an elementary school teacher in Amarillo prior to having children. She was a devoted teacher, wife, mother, business owner, and friend. Carolyn started the gift department at her husband's drug store, Sav-On Drug. Eventually, turning it into a full-blown gift store after Buddy's retirement. Carolyn Cards & Gifts became a community staple, meeting everyone's gift giving needs until retirement in 2004.

She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with all her heart. She loved talking bible with her daughter Ashley and making cinnamon rolls with her son Zac. She loved being a devoted wife and mother, watching hallmark movies, drinking her Dr. Peppers, going on Sonic trips with her best friend Linda Haines, and visiting with her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Raymond and Juanita McLaughlin of Pampa, TX.

Carolyn is survived by her beloved husband Buddy DeFord; son Zac DeFord and his wife Kristy; her daughter, Ashley DeFord Hovenden and her husband John; her brother Carl Allen McLaughlin and his wife Michelle and their two daughters Chisten Ales and Carley McCord; her Shih Tzu Annabelle; many granaminals; and many other extended family and friends. She lived a long, beautiful life of faith and love.

Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM, Friday, October 2, 2026 at Llano Cemetery Pantheon Mausoleum Chapel. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.