Book of Memories for Carlene Johanna Ewing

Condolence From Marcy Blanton

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 10:47:39 EDT

When I started teaching in 1987, I was very scared and didn't know what to expect. At that time you didn't have a mentor teacher, but there were teachers at Alma Middle School who took me under their wing and helped me through everything. There are good schools and there are good teachers but the legacy these women left will never be outdone. I dreamed of being as good a teacher as they were. But who can fill the shoes of Carlene Ewing, Beth Graham, Rosemary Blasingame, Marilyn Ferguson Yates, Vi Pettit, Karen Thompson, Sharon Bean, and Sue Lewis, They all helped me in different ways, but Carlene had the most affect on my life. We taught next to each other for over 10 years. We shared our happy moments in life, we shared our sad moments, we shared everything. We taught each others children, Deidre Underhill, Barrett Ewing, Erica Walters, Justin Blanton, and Brooks Blanton. We shared there successes, the tough things they had to go through. We shared the times our husbands were sick. I learned how a good teacher and classy lady lived and worked. I don't know how many times I would get to school and she had been there until 1,2, a.m. She altered or sewed clothing many, many times for people, for cheerleading uniforms, band and choir uniforms. Any time we had a reason to eat she would fix her room up so it would be nice for all the teachers coming in. She put tablecloths, she would go buy stuff extra with her own money to make her room as homey as possible. She did all these things, and still made each student think she was there just for them. She gave her all to every task she took on, being in the same department was wonderful, because she led and following her was so easy. She retired a few a few years before I did, and it took something out of me. My guide was gone. Deidra, Barrett, Erica, you three were so loved, I never heard her say one word about being frustrated with her kids. She had many accomplishments in her life, but to her, you three were her best. I was fortunate enough to learn and see a true servant of God.

Condolence From Tammy Sangster

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 17:42:41 EDT

Mr. Ewing, What a beautiful service for a beautiful lady. Your family is very special to me. You were always so respectful to me and as a young teacher, I had so much to learn. I had the privilege of having your daughters in band and they were awesome young people and have grown to be wonderful young ladies. Although I didn't have Barrett, Carlene told me about him and it was as if I knew him. She was very proud of her kids and had every right to be! Carlene was such a great mentor and friend when I worked with her at the middle school. As was mentioned in the service, you and Carlene have touched many lives and I feel honored to be one of them! So sorry for your loss just always remember what a positive impact your family has had on so many. She truly demonstrated love daily. Sincerely, Tammy Sangster

Condolence From Bob and Nena Lairamore

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 12:54:07 EDT

There are no words that can help in accepting such a loss. She was a unique person that was able to touch and change the hearts of so many, especially teens. Our thoughts and prayers are with John and your family during this difficult time.

Memorial Candle lit by

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 08:48:36 EDT

Family

Condolence From Rosemary Blasingame

Thu, 25 Jun 2015 12:26:35 EDT

How I loved this woman. She and I taught at Alma Middle School for more than 20 years. We did so many things together. She was my best friend. We could sit and talk for hours about school, our families, what we thought should happen and what we could do about it. The latter statement is true because we would try to do something about things that we thought should change. We were sponsors of clubs at school, and were always trying new projects with the students that would benefit the students, the school, and the community. I told the children and John that Carlene and I would “ask for forgiveness” instead of permission, and boy could we play the innocent role. She was a woman, friend, and teacher that would go out of her way to help and guide. She was always there when I needed help and I was there for her. It got to be where you saw one of us working on something; the other was not far away. We had our own “Band Bus” when Dee, Francie and Larry were in band. We were known for being the cleanest bus and we hoped the most enjoyable. We tried to mother them all and they knew we were there for those kids. She was one of those people that everyone went to when in need of advice, love, and caring. She loved her work and those kind of teachers are hard to find. I am sure all of her students remember her and I feel that they were blessed by being in her class. I can remember when we retired. She nor I wanted a big reception for our “going away”, but we decided that if we did it together then it would be OK. Well, I left her by herself that day, (Bill was in the hospital at LR) and she had to be on her own. I will miss just talking on the phone about “our kids” and everything that we were both doing. I know that she is taking care of people where she is and finding all “things to do”, but I am going to miss her. In her way she is making everyone aware that you should treasure every day, and make sure the ones around you know you love them. I witnessed the love her family had for her. A pat on the shoulder, or a hug or a kiss or just simply a touch or a look were there for her, and knowing her like I did, she appreciated everything. Dear Best Friend, I will miss you, but I am a better person by loving you.

Condolence From Debbi Reeves

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 18:29:53 EDT

Charlene had a smile and joyful greeting each time I meet her.My prayers go out the the family of a wonderful person to have known.

Memorial Candle lit by Tami gardner

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 14:08:22 EDT

Tami Gardner and Laurie Bartels Warford And Families

Story shared: Best Home Ec teacher

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 11:18:18 EDT

Mrs. Ewing was a great mentor and wonderful teacher. I trually apreciated all the time she took with me in Home Ec in 1973-1976. I even enjoyed the Saturday mornings when she drove me and Laurie Brewer to Russeleville for oil painting classes. I give so much credit to Mrs. Ewing because I have taken my sewing talent and made it my career for over 35 years and I am still altering and doing some design work. I have sewn for a president and first lady, Miss Americas and local teen and miss queens, as well as many other wonderful clients and I believe to this day if Mrs. Ewing had not been my Home Ec teacher, my path would have taken a different direction. Even in FHA, I loved all the projects and service projects she had us involved in. I wanted to grow up and be just like her with all the crafts, toll painting and things that she did. She trully was a blessing in my life and am so very sorry for your loss . She will be deeply missed.

Cindy Raible CHS class of 76

Condolence From Ralph Esposito

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 06:19:25 EDT

My deepest sympathy to the family and also the St. Michael community. Her dedication and service even during trying times speaks highly of her great love. While I was there it was a great joy to work with her and things got moving as soon as she came through the door. Heaven better watch out !

Condolence From Jill Allain Dean

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 02:48:43 EDT

Dearest Ewing family,My heart is so deeply saddened and grieving as I learn about Carlene. I was not even aware of her illness. Though I so deeply regret not having known,,distance,time and health could not lessen the deep respect,admiration,friendship and love I feel for each and all of you.You included me in your family and were my family,filling the void of losing my own.You all are the sweetest,closest,most loving and spiritual family I have ever known.I can never thank you enough for including me. Carlene's name is on my medical records as the next of kin and first contact number. I entrusted her with my health and my life. Both Mr. Ewing and Carlene have( had) the utmost integrity.Carlene had so many gifts and talents,whether teaching ,organizing,cooking,sewing etc. She organized my things and helped me move, a huge feat, and altered my wedding dress just to name a couple of so many things she did to help me.She was a wonderful and selfless friend.Her greatest passion and love was her family. She included them,Mr. Ewing,her children and the grandchildren in every conversation. She lived for them. We should all be so blessed to have someone love us so deeply. May God bless and keep each and all of you and give you His continued,protection, love and peace. In love and prayers, Jill Allain Dean.

Memorial Candle lit by Brenda Stanley

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 23:46:35 EDT

Brenda Nottenkamper Stanley

Condolence From Katrina Wewers

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 21:52:19 EDT

One of my favorite teachers at CHS. Such a wonderful lady and caring teacher. She will truly be missed! So sorry for your family's loss. Prayers for your family.

Condolence From Katrina Wewers

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 21:50:18 EDT

One of my favorite teachers at CHS. Such a wonderful lady and caring teacher. She will truly be missed! So sorry for your family's loss. Prayers for your family.

Condolence From Nancy Hill

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 21:38:07 EDT

Doug and I are extremely sorry for your loss. When I think of Carlene, I can't help but smile. I greatly admire her professionalism as a teacher. It seemed she always knew the right thing to do and how to do it. However, along with that professionalism came Carlene's sense of humor. I taught with her a lot of years at the middle school, and in that time, we shared a lot of laughs. I can still hear her laugh and see her lovely smile. It so warms my heart. She was always a leader, a giver, and willing to take on whatever the new challenge may be at the time. Carlene was so unique and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayer are with each of you. Doug and Nancy Hill

Condolence From Leisa Rice Pfeiffer

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 16:56:04 EDT

I will never forget what a great teacher and friend Mrs. Ewing was while she taught at Charleston. She made such an impact on my life and I always knew I could count on her. She was a beautiful person inside and out and I am thankful for the time I had with her during those years. May God continue to bless you all during this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Condolence From Cecilia Adams Rothert

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 12:54:58 EDT

Dear Ewing Family, Words can not express what a wonderful lady your wife and mother was to so many. She touched so many lives in her time here on earth. She was not only a great teacher, mentor, but a great friend to so many. She will be missed but now she is without pain and with God's loving arms wrapped around you, he will lead you through this tough time. May you find peace in knowing that she is "Free" from her earthy pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you--Cecilia Adams Rothert

Condolence From Renee

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 10:45:41 EDT

My heart and prayers are with Carlene and all her loved ones. I trust she will continue all the more to bring souls to God's love, just as she did so tirelessly at St. Michael's. I am forever grateful for her guidance, support, and love. "My soul, be at rest in God alone, from whom comes my hope. God alone is my rock and my salvation, my secure height; I shall not fall. My safety and glory are with God, my strong rock and refuge. Trust God at all times, my people! Pour out your hearts to God our refuge!" Psalm 62: 6-9

Story shared: Good memories

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 09:49:06 EDT

It's hard to believe it was 20 yrs ago when Carlene, Erika, me, and my daughter Angela all went to Washington D.C. for history day. We had a great time! Carlene and I shared a room and our girls shared a room. I remember one evening sitting in our hotel room watching the O.J. Simpson "chase" on tv. Yep, it's been that long ago. We all had so much fun that trip and one of the things I enjoyed most was the priviledge of getting to know Carlene. I can't think of a more loving, gentle, positive person! Not easy to share a room with a "stranger", but Carlene never felt like a stranger. I haven't seen her in a few years, but she still has a very special place in my heart and mind. She will be missed. Love and thoughts to her family. Karen

Story shared: A wonderful teacher and person

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 09:43:41 EDT

I really enjoyed Mrs. Ewing's home ec class. She taught us a lot about sewing, job interviews, what colors and hairstyles look good for your face shape and skin color. She put her whole heart into teaching at Alma Middle School. She was a wonderful person. She was there for her students when they needed her; she really cared for each student. She was one of my favorite teachers.

Condolence From Debra, Larry, Lance and Blake LaRue

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 08:38:05 EDT

Carlene was a true Angel on Earth. She had such a wonderful impact on so many people. Our prayers go out to the family .

Condolence From Eric Brooks

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 08:31:56 EDT

Mr. Ewing & Family, May God give you peace and comfort in the coming days. God bless you.

Condolence From Kristin (Coleman) Gomez

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 01:04:32 EDT

I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for a you as I remember all the wonderful times we had growing up together. God truly blessed us by placing you all in our lives. You're in our prayers.

Condolence From Patti Bowles

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 23:57:35 EDT

So sorry to hear of your loss. Thinking of your family in prayer.

Condolence From Donna Scoggins

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 23:25:10 EDT

Carlene was such a blessing to many people and she will be dearly missed. I pray that God will give you all the strength to celebrate her life until the pain of her passing is lessened with time. She will never be forgotten because of her wonderful legacy and because of her special family, John, Barret, Deidre, Erica and families and the impact all have had on so many.

Condolence From Jeff and Heather Dean

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 23:10:08 EDT

We were so saddened to hear of your loss. We have always had the utmost respect for the Ewing family. Your commitment as a family to serving others and showing kindness has been a tremendous influence in our community.

Condolence From Kristi Dillard

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 22:35:23 EDT

John, Erica, Barrett and Deidre you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Carlene was such an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. Her love for you all just poured out every time I heard her talk about her family. She was an wonderful teacher and an inspiring friend. I will miss her immensely. May God comfort you during this time. Love always,

Condolence From Sue Stewart

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 21:12:56 EDT

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Carlene. She was such a beautiful lady, inside and out. I always enjoyed visiting with her and hated when your family moved from Charleston. My prayers are with your family during this trying time and I am sure Carlene is gracing Heaven with her beautiful smile. God Bless.

Condolence From Amanda patterson and family

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 21:00:26 EDT

Our thoughts prayers and love are with your family. She was a beautiful lady! A wonderful teacher who always had a smile on her face. Blessed to have her as a teacher. She will be greatly missed.

Condolence From Donella Smither

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 20:51:54 EDT

So sorry for your loss.

Condolence From Kim McDaniel Williams

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 20:45:59 EDT

Mr. Ewing and family, I was sadden to learn of Mrs. Ewing's passing.......seems like yesterday I was in home ec with her. You, Mrs. Ewing, and Mr. Gwen Ewing were such positive influences in my early years. It is a blessing to have had you all in my life. May God be with you in the days ahead. With fond memories, Kim

Condolence From Annette Chamberlain

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 19:53:35 EDT

So sorry for your loss. She was a great teacher and will be missex by all. Our prayers are with you during this sad time. I pray God gives you comfort.

Condolence From Annette Chamberlain

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 19:53:11 EDT

So sorry for your loss. She was a great teacher and will be missex by all. Our prayers are with you during this sad time. I pray God gives you comfort.

Condolence From Carl and Rosemary Underwood

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 19:25:29 EDT

Carlene was a special friend, as is John. Her sweet spirit and beautiful smile will be missed by everyone. May God give everyone peace and comfort knowing that she is now pain free. May God's guiding hand give you peace.

Condolence From Martha Osbun

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 19:18:11 EDT

What a privilege it was to know Carlene, and such fun to work with her on retreats! Such a loving, wonderful person she was, and it's a great loss to all of us. My deepest sympathy to her family!

Condolence From Carolyn S. (Brown) Bowen

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 19:03:55 EDT

You were a wonderful teacher and a true lady. A class act. Thanks for your service at Charleston High School. Carolyn Brown Bowen

Condolence From Alyson Brooks Barrow

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 18:56:24 EDT

I just want to leave my very deepest condolences. Your mother was such a special person to me growing up. I always loved to see her at tennis and church. She was such a strong person and one of the sweetest people I have ever met.

Condolence From Cindy Bradley

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 18:35:22 EDT

Dear Ewing family, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Carlene first as being the person who was always giving to others, giving herself and her time to help and serve. I have some special memories of our time working together with the high school tennis team. She was such a support for me, taking care of everything so I could focus on coaching. Always smiling, always warm and welcoming. My thoughts and prayers are with your family now and in the future. With love, Cindy Bradley

Condolence From Pam Wadsworth

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 18:01:14 EDT

John, Erica, Deidre, and Barret: I am so heartbroken at the passing of your wife and mother. I loved working with Carlene during the time I served Middle School. She was always so sweet and friendly....a beautiful soul!! So loved by all faculty and students! I'll never forget her coming to save the day when my sister had too many kittens on hand! :) She never failed to keep me up to date on "Oreo." My prayers are with all of you during such a difficult time. May God give you strength and guide you through the days to come. Love you all!

Condolence From Brenda Stanley

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 16:30:44 EDT

We were just young girls when I learned to admire you so. You showed such strength. All of my memories of you are so pleasant. The things you, Joann, Louis, Bernadine & Johnny didn't get us city slickers into. I loved watching you & my brother interact. You were his favorite. I'm so thankful we were able to visit again through out our lives. We both shared a love for our dads & were able to talk about it. You were so in love with John & so proud of you children & grandchildren. We had a history you & I. We shared some secrets. I'm so sorry for your family that you had to leave us so soon. Goodbye precious cousin. I love you. Brenda

Story shared: First Class at CHS

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 15:42:29 EDT

We were the lucky girls who learned to be a "homemaker" under Miss Schmaltz. She taught us "home Economics" on the upper floor of the old rock building. I almost failed the "cut up a fryer" with a sharp knife... could not stand to touch the cold, slimy dead chicken with out wearing gloves!! Funny I later went into the medical profession. Then in the 11 grade she and Mr Ford were our class sponsors... None of the other teachers agreed to sponsor our class the Sr Year of 1972... we had a bad reputation for being unruley...or should I say.. the BOYS, you know, Gary,Gary, Gary, Henry, Danny,Truman, and most innocent Charlie.

She was a wonderful person and we were so Happy when sefinnaly said she uld go out wth Mr Ewing!! Then he stole her heart a moved to Alma... bt weNEVER forgot about either of them.

She had a POSITIVE influence on every child that she met... whether they were in her class not. My Prayers are with her family. God has her wings ready and she is not suffering anymore.

Karen Sharp Wilson

Photo shared: Ewing.jpg

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 01:23:04 EDT