June 19, 1949 — Feb. 27, 2015

Carylin “Carol” Lee (Phillips) Tinkham, 65, of Niles, passed away after her courageous battle with lung cancer on Friday, Feb. 27, 2015, with her family by her side.

Carol was born on June 19, 1949, to the late John and Edna (Shabrum) Phillips in South Bend, Indiana. After graduating from Galien High School Carol wed Wayne “Rusty” Tinkham, on Dec. 6, 1969. The two were inseparable and enjoyed their time spent with their family, especially the grandchildren. Carol was a baker and cake decorator for many years and enjoyed making cakes for her grandchildren’s birthdays and family events. She was an avid quilter and crafter but also loved spending time outdoors tending to her yard while Rusty tended to his garden. Carol and Rusty loved to travel with their family. She had visited 47 of the 50 states; a goal that her children and grandchildren will complete in her honor.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Rusty Tinkham; and sister Sharlene Phillips.

Carol is survived by her two sons, Scott (Kristal) Tinkham and Bobby (Angie) Tinkham, both of Niles; grandchildren Bailey, Layne, Shaylin, Mckenna and Noah; twin brother Marlin (Delores) Phillips of Galien, Michigan; and two sisters Marilyn Luse of South Bend, Indiana and Loretta (Ronald) Phillips of Melbourne, Florida.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Carol’s name may do so to Portage Road General Baptist Church at 1765 Portage Avenue, Niles, MI 49120

In keeping with Carol’s wishes she has been cremated and her family will be hosting a memorial service on Thursday, March 5, 2015, at Portage Road General Baptist Church at 6 p.m. with a dinner to follow.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.