Carolyn Marie Johnson Hartley,  peacefully departed this life on April 27, 2026, at her residence, leaving behind a legacy enriched with love, creativity, and devotion to family. Born on October 18, 1954, in Maysville, Kentucky, Carolyn’s vibrant spirit and warm heart touched all who knew her.

A cherished member of the Franklin Sousley VFW Post 1834 Ladies Auxiliary, Carolyn was known not only for her community involvement but also for her passions that brought joy and meaning to her days. She found great delight in crafting and woodworking, expressing her talent through projects that reflected her care and attention to detail. Camping by the serene waters of Cave Run Lake was a treasured escape, where she connected with nature and created lasting memories. Vacations offered her the chance to explore the world beyond her Kentucky roots, but nothing compared to the joy she found in spending precious time with her beloved grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Carolyn’s life was beautifully intertwined with those she loved. She is survived by her devoted son, Leonard Newton Burke of Flemingsburg, Kentucky; her loving daughter, Emily Miller, and husband Mark, also of Flemingsburg; and her stepdaughter, Annette Knipp, of Ewing, Kentucky. Carolyn’s family circle extended to her brother, Everett Ray Johnson, and his wife Linda of Georgetown, Kentucky, and her sister, Karen Carpenter of Flemingsburg. Her lifelong friendship with Judy Earls exemplified the deep bonds she nurtured throughout her life.

Her legacy lives on through six cherished grandchildren: Brittany Morris and her partner Matt, Brandon Burke and his wife Shelby, Bradley Burke, Paige Miller, Ashley Miller, and Christine Knipp along with her partner Matt. These beloved grandchildren have been blessed by eight adoring great-grandchildren who carry forward Carolyn’s love and spirit. Surrounding her family were several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who all felt the warmth of her presence.

Carolyn’s journey was shared with her late husband, Michael D. Hartley, who passed away on November 2, 2024, a loss deeply felt by all who loved them. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Clinton Johnson and Mae Shields Johnson, whose memories she held close throughout her life.

The visitation to honor Carolyn’s memory will be held on April 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Price Brothers Funeral Home, located at 5197 Elizaville Rd, Ewing, KY 41039. Following the visitation, a funeral service will commence at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Price Brothers Funeral Home with Rev. Randy Fritz officiating. 

Carolyn will be laid to rest next to her husband Michael in the Elizaville Cemetery.

Casket bearers will be Mark Miller, Everett Johnson, Jacob Carpenter, Josh Patton, Brandon Burke, and Chad Johnson.

Honorary casket bearers will be Bradley Burke, Paige Miller, Ashley Miller, Brittany Morris, Christine Knipp, and the members of the Franklin Sousley VFW Post 1834 Ladies Auxiliary.  

All arrangements for Carolyn Marie Johnson Hartley and family are under the care and direction of the Price Brothers Funeral Home.