Carolyn A. (Smith) Bushey

Carolyn A. Bushey, affectionately known as “Ma” to her cherished children, passed away peacefully with her daughter by her side, breaking away from the chains of sickness and suffering that have plagued her for quite some time, on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Midstate Medical Center in Meriden.

Carolyn was born on August 27, 1940, in Steuben, Maine, daughter to the late Carroll E. and Kathryn (Morse) Smith. Carolyn graduated from Hartford Public Schools and went on to begin a career as a bookkeeper, retiring from General Equities after many dedicated years to her profession. Carolyn grew up in a poor housing project in Hartford with her mom and younger siblings, persevering through so many trials and tribulations in her childhood, using that as fuel to better herself.

Carolyn held her mother in the highest regard, which aspired her desire to become a mother, and the birth of her children was the greatest gift she could ever receive. She loved her children dearly as they were her pride and joy and watching the generations to come made her heart so full.

Remembered fondly for her passion for crafts, Carolyn was a gifted crocheter who filled her home with intricate designs and colorful yarn. She had a talent for creating beautiful bridesmaid dresses and adored making jewelry, sharing her creations with those she loved. She was a warm and caring woman who cherished family gatherings and loved celebrating holidays with loved ones, particularly through the tradition of picnic gatherings.

Carolyn was a social butterfly who cherished time spent surrounded by family and friends. Her protective nature especially extended to her sister in their years of growing up, as they shared an unbreakable bond filled with love and appreciation. Carolyn's kind heart and willingness to help others knew no bounds, yet she was also known for her feisty and no-nonsense personality - a force to be reckoned with if crossed. Known for her resilient spirit and unwavering determination, Carolyn was as tough as nails.

Leaving behind a legacy marked by her love for animals, particularly dogs, and a fondness for stories of animal rescue, Carolyn's memory will live on. Her passion for the UCONN women's basketball team, accompanied by a refreshing Diet Coke and her favorite black licorice, marked cherished moments in her life. She will always be remembered for valuing the importance of moments shared with those we hold dear. 

Carolyn is survived by her children, Kathy Spencer and her husband, Roy, Richard Bushey, Jr. and his wife, Shari, Brian Bushey and his wife, Sue, and Jeffrey Bushey and his wife, Dixie Meehan; her grandchildren, Mike Spencer and his wife, Becky, Matthew Spencer, Katie (Bushey) Jones and her husband, Dan, and Ryan Bushey; her great-grandchildren, Adelia and Ben Spencer, Noelle and Kennedy Jones, and Jacqueline Keith-Spencer; her sister, Donna Boyette and her husband, Cado; her good friend, Nancy Landon; and the father of her children “Pa” Richard Bushey, Sr. She was predeceased by her brother, Richard Smith.

Honoring Carolyn’s wishes, her family will celebrate her life privately. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Carolyn may be made to Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter, 200 Executive Blvd S #4b, Southington, CT 06489 (www.alz.org/ct). The staff at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville, extends their appreciation to Carolyn’s family for their trust.

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