Carolyn Louise Gorley

Carolyn Louise Gorley, 67, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on May 3, 1957, in Butte, Montana, Carolyn was one of seven siblings and a proud graduate of Butte High School, Class of 1975.

She was introduced by friends to the love of her life, Tom, at the Finlen Hotel Bar in Butte. Together they built a beautiful life over 40 years of marriage. Carolyn’s greatest joy was her family, and she was the heart of every gathering. She worked for many years and excelled in accounting before taking a break to raise her family, she ultimately finished her career as an HR and Payroll Specialist.

She is survived by her husband, Tom; her daughter, Rebecca Prorock (Mark); her son, Matt Gorley (Darcy); her daughter, Rachel Kern (Brandon), and her grandchildren Luke, Asher, and Willow. She also shared a special bond with her daughter by heart, Dawn Petritz (Dan), and their children, Archie and Aidan. Carolyn is also survived by five of her siblings: Fred Witt (Toni), Dave Witt (Cheryl), Elaine McCarthy (Pat), Bill Jones (Dana), and Aaron Jones; her sister-in-law Debbie Boyd (Scott), brother-in-law Mark Gorley (Mary Lou), Sisters-in-law Sandy Carter, Kathy Witt, and Sarah Jones along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Helen, her brother Johnny Jones, her father, John Jones, and stepmother, Judy.

Carolyn had an adventurous spirit and a deep love for the outdoors including skiing, hiking, and working in her garden. Carolyn was an excellent cook and her love of pasta was well known amongst family.

Her warmth, kindness, and ability to make everyone feel special will never be forgotten. She had a special bond with each of her children, who adore their mom deeply. She had a unique connection with all her grandchildren (and grandanimals) and never missed an opportunity to support them in their activities and passions.

Carolyn’s legacy of love, adventure, and family will live on in all who knew her.