Ms. Carolyn Opar, age 88, passed away peacefully in her home in Santa Rosa Beach on Friday, August 11, 2023. She was born on June 18, 1935 in Troy, New York.

As a dedicated leader in the Blue Bird and Brownie organizations, Carolyn embarked on a life journey characterized by generosity and progress. Her nurturing spirit initially flourished within her family, where she imparted skills such as cooking, sewing, gardening, and essential values that fostered honesty and kindness in her children, which guided them toward growing into responsible adults. Carolyn and Mike raised their three children through adulthood in the Midwest.

Beyond her family, Carolyn extended her teaching prowess by serving as an educator in Long Grove, IL. Her role involved enlightening others about the history of the area, tracing back to the origins of its settlers, their way of life, and the unique one-room schoolhouse and barn where children learned. She highlighted their agricultural practices, including producing crops and utilizing garden plants for dyeing fabrics, all while cultivating a deep reverence for the land they called home.

Around five decades ago, Carolyn and her husband Mike discovered the beauty of Santa Rosa Beach, where they eventually became active members of St. Rita's Church. Her involvement in the sewing ministry showcased her passion for aiding the community. She channeled her creativity and skills into crafting quilts for the new births wing at Sacred Heart Hospital, a testament to her unwavering dedication. As her vision began to fade with age, she adapted her philanthropic endeavors, fashioning stuffed sock characters for children in distress, providing a sense of comfort through her compassionate gestures.

Her generosity extended to all she encountered, leaving a lasting mark on her husband of 66 years Mike Opar; her three children Debbie Relan and husband Jody, Lynn Benjamin and husband Rande, and Michael Opar and wife Roni; her four grandchildren; her two great-grandchildren, and everyone else fortunate enough to cross her path. The void left by her absence is profound, and she will be deeply missed.

Carolyn, look down from Heaven and continue to guide us. We will miss you.

A visitation will be held at 12:45 – 1:30 PM, Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at St. Rita's Catholic Church; 22 St. Rita Lane, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459.

Funeral Mass will be held at 1:30 PM, Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at St. Rita's Catholic Church; 22 St. Rita Lane, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459.

Burial will be at Historic Gulf Cemetery in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, with a reception to follow.

Please send donations in lieu of flowers to https://www.dementiasociety.org/ or https://saintritaparish.org/.