Carolyn Louise (Crenshaw) Dancler, 77, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her loving family, following an extended illness, on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 9:32 a.m. Though her earthly journey has come to an end, the love she gave, the laughter she shared, and the warmth she brought into every room will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

She was born on July 18, 1948, in New Madrid, Missouri, to the late Johnnie Lee and Louise (Jacobs) Crenshaw. Carolyn was raised in a home where family, faith, and food came together to shape a life rich in love and meaning. In 1968, she married her beloved husband, King A. Dancler, Jr., in Elkhart, and together they built a home that was filled with joy, faith, and the sweet sounds of family gatherings. King preceded her in death in early 2008, yet his memory remained a constant presence in Carolyn's heart and conversation for the rest of her life.

Also preceding her in death were her sister, Patricia A. House, and her brothers, Johnnie L. "Bud" Crenshaw, Jr. and Rayford Crenshaw II.

Left to cherish her memory are her children — King A. (Onjanette) Dancler of South Bend, Deborah K. Dancler of Mishawaka, Makesha L. Dancler and Carmen D. Dancler, both of Elkhart, and her loving sisters Loretta (Raymond) McQueen of Granger and Bobbie J. (DeKater H.) Suggs of Napa Valley, California. But Carolyn's pride and joy were her grandchildren — Brian Dancler, Deondre (Jessica) Bonds, Khyreshia Moton, Ashley Collins, Donald Dancler, Tai Asia Warr, King Dancler IV, Diamond Dancler, Oriane Dancler, Dayshawn Woods, Phoenix Clark, Chaleb Turner — and her thirteen great-grandchildren, who lit up her world with their laughter. She also leaves behind a large and loving extended family and a wide circle of dear friends and neighbors from across California, North Carolina, Indianapolis, and beyond.

Carolyn's Homegoing Celebration will be held at AGAPE Missionary Baptist Church, 248 West Wolf Avenue, Elkhart, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 12:00 P.M., with visitation beginning one hour prior at 11:00 a.m.  The Reverend Dr. Dannell Brown, Ph.D., will officiate. Burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart.

For nearly 30 years, Carolyn proudly served the Elkhart Community Schools, where she became a beloved face to generations of children as a bus aide, crossing guard, and summer lunch worker. Every child who crossed her path knew they were safe, cared for, and loved. Her laughter carried down the hallways, and her kindness made ordinary days a little brighter. Her coworkers became family, and many still recall her saying, "Treat every child like your own."

At home, Carolyn's kitchen was the heartbeat of her household. She was a legendary cook — who could prepare any southern meal from chitterlings, greens, hog maws to wild game. Her potato salad and duck dressing were local treasures, and her sisters loved to joke that Carolyn had inherited all the "old recipes" that time had forgotten. Whether she was cooking for Sunday dinner, a church potluck, or the neighborhood kids who always seemed to show up hungry, Carolyn's food came with a heaping side of love.

She was, in every sense, a keeper of traditions — family get togethers at her house and family stories When a group of cars gathered at the family home it was a beacon to everyone it was food and fun happening at the house. Everyone was invited; no formal invitation was required. Carolyn would make sure there was food for all no matter how many people stopped by. The house has been an anchor in the community for generations.

Carolyn's welcoming spirit reached far beyond her front door. She had a way of making everyone feel like family. With her radiant smile, infectious laugh, and those unforgettable dimples that could that you could not miss, Carolyn drew people in wherever she went. She was the "neighborhood mom," who was generous with everyone but did not have a filter when she spoke her mind. She would give you the cold hard truth. Carolyn also had a forgiving heart and great compassion for others. She was the kind of soul who would give her last dollar, not out of obligation, but out of pure love for others.

Outside of work and family, Carolyn found peace in her garden, where she lovingly tended to her flowers and plants — a passion that earned her a City Beautification Award from the City of Elkhart. Her home, surrounded by vibrant color and blooming life, reflected her own spirit: bright, nurturing, and full of grace.

Carolyn also dedicated much of her time to serving others. She volunteered at local soup kitchens, participated in outreach programs, and was a proud and active member of AGAPE Missionary Baptist Church, where she was president of the Pastors Aid Committee. Her faith shone brightly in everything she did. She was also a life member of the Indiana Black Expo, celebrating community, culture, and connection.

A 20-year breast cancer survivor, Carolyn faced her challenges with courage, faith, and strength. Every year, she celebrated her survivorship with joy — sometimes even with her hair dyed a radiant pink — as a symbol of hope and strength. She gave generously to cancer support organizations such as United Cancer Services and Ribbon of Hope, she participated in cancer walks encouraging others to hold fast to faith, even in difficult times. In honor of Carolyn and breast cancer month we are asking everyone to wear some pink for the service.

Above all else, Carolyn lived a life of love, service, and faith. She taught her family the importance of family, kindness, laughter, and standing firm in God's promises. Her presence filled every space with light — and though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will continue in the countless lives she touched.

Carolyn Louise Dancler was a devoted woman of God whose life centered on faith and family — she loved deeply, served selflessly, and built a legacy of faith, love, and togetherness that will live on through all who knew her.