Carolyn Cowden Bufkin passed away peacefully in Fairhope, Alabama, on Tuesday, March 15, 2022. She was in hospice care and had been in a lengthy decline in health. Nevertheless, she maintained her dignity and independence, living out her life as she wished in the cherished home of her own design.
Carolyn will be remembered as a warm, loving lady, solid and honest, who had lasting friendships with many people. She was known for her sharp mind and quick wit, which she kept until the end of her life. She had a slightly ribald sense of humor which defined her in some respects.
Carolyn had an enthusiasm for football, following Auburn University, her alma mater, with a staggering level of intensity. She was prepared to close out her life only after the Super Bowl was done. Her finest achievements, however, were related to her musical abilities. She played piano at a professional level with sensitivity and interpretive depth informed by her perfect pitch. In early adulthood she taught music in the public schools. Additionally, she was something of a self-taught architect, having designed and directed construction of three of her own houses in her lifetime.
Carolyn and Willard Bufkin were married in 1955. They had a happy life filled with books and travel until Willard’s sudden and unexpected death some 15 years later. Carolyn never had children of her own but was close to her nephews, their children, in-laws, and numerous close friends.
She is survived by nephews, Dr. Arthur M. Cowden, II (Theresa) and Joel N. Cowden (Dr. Carlos Setti); grandnephews, The Right Reverend Matthew Cowden (Melissa) and Mark DiCowden (Tristan); grandnieces, Anna Cowden Roberts and Ashley Cowden DiScala (Anthony); and four great-grandnephews and four great-grandnieces.
Arrangements are being made for a small private memorial in celebration of her life. Carolyn was a supporter of Doctors Without Borders and contributions in her memory made to that organization would be most appreciated. Donations may be made at https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/secure/donate
Expressions of condolence for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com. Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
She will be missed beyond words.
A truly full and rewarding life fill with joy and giving to others. With sincere condolences to her wonderful family,
As her namesake I hold Carolyn dearly in my heart. Distance kept us from having frequent visits but our chats and correspondences was always special. Carolyn was so kind. I will miss her
A true gift and light! It was a joy to have conversations with her and her quips and humor were always engaging! She was fiercely independent and genuinely delightful! Carolyn was smart as a whip!
You couldn’t help but be drawn to her. She was kind and thoughtful and loved deeply. If you were one of her people, you were HERS!
I miss her deeply and loved her so much. I am so grateful to have had her in my life!
I meet Ms Bufkin a few months back, and my life has been truly enriched by her, She will be greatly missed by myself and the entire staff at Coastal Caregivers.
Mrs..Bufkin you are truly missed! It was a joy having you in my life. We had some good times together acting like we were the coaches. It was hard to get your team to make the plays you wanted them to make. They always seem to make a touchdown when you leave the room or cover your eyes. I can just see the expression on your face when they won the game. I’m so grateful for the time the Lord shared you with me. Joel and Matt you’re Aunt was an intelligent young lady, independent and strong will.
“Miz B”, you will be remembered as a sharp witted teacher, a superb storyteller and a compassionate friend. You definitely have been correctly characterized as One of a Kind. We will miss you. I will miss you. Thank you for all of your kindnesses.