Carolyn Sue Chilless

Carolyn Sue Chilless
Aug 20, 1941 – May 20, 2023

Carolyn Sue Chilless, beloved sister, mother, and grandmother, passed away on May 20, 2023, in Yukon, Oklahoma. She is survived by her loving and supportive best friend and sister, Earline Smaistrla of Yukon, Oklahoma, as well as her three daughters: Trudi Terry of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Cindy Kapella of Los Angeles, California, and Kathy Prichard of Lampasas, Texas.

Carolyn is also remembered by her six grandchildren: Stephen and Scarlett Kapella of Los Angeles, California, Jill Zamudio and Conner Terry of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Starlia and Kevin Prichard of Austin, Texas. Additionally, she leaves behind four great-grandchildren.

Carolyn had a zest for life and enjoyed embarking on road trips, listening to the Eagles, and indulging in Diet Pepsi and all things chocolate.

Her lifelong passion for music began at the age of three when she started playing the piano. Her exceptional talent and gift brought solace and delight not only to her own heart but also to the lives of countless others. As a devoted piano teacher, Carolyn shared her musical knowledge and nurtured the talents of her students, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. For many years, Carolyn served as a church organist and children’s choir director at Putnam City United Methodist Church. In addition to her church involvement, she also showcased her musical abilities as an organist for the Oklahoma City Blazers hockey team during the 1970s, adding an element of entertainment to the games.

In the early days, Carolyn dedicated her time and efforts to the March of Dimes. She organized numerous walk-a-thons, traversing Oklahoma behind the wheel of her ’77 Nova, all the while communicating with her CB Radio as the “MOD Lady.”

Carolyn found joy and happiness at the beach. With a carefree outlook, she embraced life, refusing to worry about tomorrow. Her adventurous spirit led her to reside in various places throughout her journey, including South Padre Island, Texas, Tumacacori, Arizona, Los Angeles, California, and Austin, Texas, before ultimately returning to her home base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where she took great pride in her work as a medical secretary at Radiology Associates for many years.

Carolyn Chilless touched the lives of many through her musical talents and her love for her family. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Carolyn’s upcoming birthday – August 20, 2023 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Details pending.