Carolyn Hooks Bland was born on June 29, 1932 in Texarkana, Texas to Stanley Hooks and Arlinnie Bell Hooks. She lived a life beautifully defined by enduring faith, education, and service. A devoted mother, "mammo", educator, and community servant, she touched many lives through her wisdom, compassion for people, and dedication.

She earned a degree in Nursing at the Methodist Hospital of Southern California, a degree in Education at Prairie View A&M University and her Master's degree at East Texas State University. After working as a Nurse, she began teaching in 1957 and served the Los Angeles School District for 20 years and Liberty-Eylau School District for 27 years. Throughout her career, she was recognized as Teacher of the Year, TRAHC ArtsSmart Hero Classroom, and Who's Who Among America's Teachers. After retiring in 2004, she continued to serve as a substitute teacher and volunteered her time to a variety of local causes and organizations, including Hospice of Texarkana, Miller County Scan, the Perot Theatre, Texarkana Public Library, and Randy Sams Outreach Shelter to name a few. She understood the importance of showing up and meeting a need. When there was a call for assistance, she (and her hat) was never far.

A devout Christian and faithful member of Williams Memorial United Methodist Church for 50 years, she served as a Sunday School teacher and choir member for many years and frequently supported a variety of children's ministries. A music and theater enthusiast, she loved to sing and support the Texarkana arts community. She was an avid member of the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council and formerly served on the Board of Directors for the Texarkana Regional Chorale and Texarkana Repertory Company.

She is preceded in death by Joe Virgil Bland and son Robert Stanley Bland.  She is survived by her sister, Wilma White of Beaumont, TX. Children: Virgil Bland of Turrell, AR (Cynthia), Daphne Starks of Texarkana, TX, Michael Bland of Texarkana, TX, Darin Bland of Texarkana, TX and Larry Starks of Texarkana, AR. Grandchildren: Kenya Ramirez (Adrian), Porcha Hawkins, Kailyne McKinney, Corey Walker (Alex), Akemi Bland, Brandi Payne, Christi Mcholty and Constance Taylor. Great-Grandchildren: Daniel, Isaiah, Elisha, Ariana, Coron, Penelope, Amir, Makai, Alana, Marcus, Caisley, and a host of cherished nieces and nephews.

Her legacy lives on through the family she loved the students she taught, and the community she faithfully served. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.