Carolyn Gaar Obituary

Carolyn Gaar, age 88, entered into her eternal rest peacefully at her home in Gaars Mill on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Mrs. Gaar was known to many throughout Winn Parish and the surrounding communities as the beloved owner of Billie's Flower Shop, where for more than 30 years she brought beauty, color, and comfort to countless families during both joyful celebrations and moments of sorrow. Through her artistry and compassionate spirit, she left an enduring mark on the community she so dearly loved.

In addition to her years as a business owner, Carolyn faithfully served the children of Winn Parish for over 20 years as a school bus driver at Dodson High School. She considered it a privilege to safely transport generations of students, many of whom remembered her warm smile and steady presence.

Her life was one of service. She was an active member of the Pilot Club and the Home Demonstration Club, always willing to lend her time and talents to community efforts. During the years her children and grandchildren attended Dodson High School, she could often be found volunteering, supporting school activities, and cheering them on with pride.

Above all, Carolyn dearly loved her boys, and they, in turn, took the very best of care of their mamma. She was a loyal and devoted friend; on Friday nights, she enjoyed fiercely competitive card games with Joann McDaniel, Linda Bustin, Totsy Gaar and Betty Parker-games marked by laughter, intensity, and cherished fellowship.

She was preceded in death by her father, Virgil Samples; her mother, Christine Williford Samples; her husband, Shelby Gaar, Sr.; her son, Ralph Jenkins; her siblings, Mary McGill, Linda Bowman, and Bobby Samples.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Shelby Gaar, Jr. (Quanita) of Dodson, Louisiana; her grandchildren, Meagan Jenkins Garrett (Bryan), Dallas Jenkins (Jami), and Lane Johnson (Sydney); her great-grandchildren, Memphis Northcutt, Madilyn Jenkins, Westin Jenkins, Kase Johnson, and Korleigh Johnson; and her brother, Billy Samples, along with a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

The family will receive friends at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield, Louisiana on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 5:00PM until 8:00PM. Visitation will start again on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 12 noon until time of services which will be held at 2:00PM in the chapel of Southern with Rev. Kevin Womack officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service in New Hope Cemetery in Dodson, Louisiana under the direction of Southern Funeral Homes.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bryan Garrett, Lane Johnson, Donnie McDaniel, Chase Hemperly, Michael Gray, and Dylan Womack. Honorary pallbearers will be Shelby Gaar, Jr., Dallas Jenkins, Memphis Northcutt, and Kase Johnson.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff of Winn Parish Medical Center and Hand in Hand Hospice for their unending services.

Carolyn's legacy is one of devotion to her family, her community, and her friends. Her hands arranged flowers that spoke when words failed, her steady driving carried children safely to and from school, and her life reflected a quiet strength and enduring love that will not be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New Hope Cemetery, 109 Mistye Lane, Winnfield, Louisiana 71483

Memorial Donation