Carmen Rose
Hollinsead peacefully
entered the embrace of her Lord and Savior on January 16, 2025, at the age of
94. Born on June 9, 1930, in Los Angeles, California, she graduated from
Fremont High School before dedicating her life to family and service. In 1968,
she and her beloved husband, Kenneth Hollinsead, moved to Crescent City with
their three daughters, where they built a life centered on love, faith, and
community. Both Carmen and Kenneth devoted their careers to Del Norte County
Social Services, retiring together in 1980, leaving behind a legacy of kindness
and commitment.
A gifted artist,
Carmen found immense joy in painting and was a treasured member of the Harbor
Art Gallery, where her talent was frequently recognized. Her award-winning
artwork adorned local exhibitions and the courthouse, and she delighted in
nurturing creativity in young minds through DNACA’s Artist in the Classroom
program.
Music was another of
Carmen’s great passions. A dedicated piano teacher, she shared the gift of
music with countless students and played for many church congregations. As a
skilled violinist, she performed for years with the Curry Del Norte Orchestra
and brought theater productions to life in the orchestra pit of the Lighthouse
Repertory Theatre. Her love for the arts extended beyond performance—she found
joy in attending concerts, dance recitals, and theatrical productions, always
eager to support and celebrate the creative spirit in others.
A lifelong learner
and adventurer, Carmen chronicled her travels in beautifully detailed journals.
She had a deep appreciation for Japanese culture and Haiku, writing and
illustrating three Haiku books that received numerous accolades and were
cherished by those who encountered them.
Carmen embraced life
with an open heart, whether cruising through the Caribbean, savoring new
cuisines, or simply delighting in the beauty of everyday moments. Yet, above
all, her greatest joy was her unwavering faith in Christ, a light she shared
with all who knew her. She often spoke of angels guiding her through life’s
challenges, always finding peace in the knowledge that Jesus was leading her
home. Her warmth, humor, and loving spirit will be deeply missed but forever
cherished.
A celebration of
Carmen’s life will be held at First Baptist Church on February 26 at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local art program of your choice
or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.