Caroline B. Goldbolt affectionally known as “Sweet Caroline” was born on January 14, 1943, to the late Charlie and Louise Brown. She was born and raised in Florence, SC. She attended Wilson High School. At the age of 15, “ Sweet Caroline” sought the bright lights of New York City to pursue her singing career. She sang backup for the Sam and Dave R&B group and numerous other sharing the stage the likes of Aretha Franklin, Pattie Labelle, Sam Cooke, and Otis Redding. Her promising career ended after her having throat surgery. At that time, she became a teacher’s assistant for Newark, NJ public school systems. She returned home to Florence, SC in 1978 and remained until she departed. During her spear time, she attended Mt. Rona Baptist Church and her church Savannah Grove as her health permitted her. On Tuesday, January 7, 2020 “Sweet Caroline” gained her wings and departed this earthly life.
Sweet Caroline was the party, she loved life, loved people but loved her children and family the most. She was the neighborhood mom, touching and encouraging the lives of many generations. She will be greatly missed by all but never forgotten.
Caroline is preceded in death by her husband J.C. Godbolt; her parents Charlie and Louise Brown; her brothers Charles Brown and Bubba Brown; and her sister Willie Mae Henicks.
Left to cherish her memories are her children Cathy (David) D. Benjamin and Parish (Georgia) “Spanky” Brown both of Columbia, SC. Two grandchildren; Tameca R. (Arden) McCrory of Blythewood, SC and David A. Benjamin of Locust Grove, GA. Two great-grandchildren: Madison V. Dyce (USAF) of Oklahoma City, OK, and Mason P. Hudson of Blythewood, SC. Four siblings: Rosalee Thomas of Florence, SC, Mary Brown of Florence, SC, and Lula Mae (David) Jordan of Boston, MA, and Charlie Brown Jr, of Florence, SC. Special thanks to Personal Care and Betty Jones Covington CEO, Tina Brunson a special friend and healthcare assistant and Eunice Bacote Eaddy a special friend. A host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
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