Carolyn Kay Colburn

Carolyn Kay Colburn, 90, of Winters, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024. Born on April 4, 1934, in San Angelo, Texas, Kay moved to Winters with her parents at the age of 2. She grew up in this close-knit community, where she would go on to make a lasting impact in countless ways. Kay was an active member of Winters High School. She enjoyed school, played in the band, and made history as the first high school freshman to serve as the band's drum major. In 1950, she married her high school sweetheart, Billy Joe Colburn, and together they built a life filled with love, resilience, and dedication. The early years of Kay and Bill's marriage were marked by challenges, including a seven-year drought that tested their strength. However, Kay embraced her new role as a farmer's wife, learning many skills that would serve her well throughout her life. Her deep commitment to her family and community was a cornerstone of her character. Kay was an avid reader and cruciverbalist, gifted pianist, and talented seamstress with a deep well of creativity. In later years, she found joy in watercolor painting, spending time with friends during painting classes and trips. Her creative spirit extended beyond her art, as she was always looking for ways to bring community spirit to others. She was deeply involved in Winters, working tirelessly to make it a better place for everyone. She was active in numerous local organizations, including the Women's Club, 4-H, FFA, the Blizzard Band, and the Chamber of Commerce. Kay was involved in the renovation of the historic Rock Hotel. In 1986, she and Bill were honored as the Farm Family of the Year by the Winters Chamber of Commerce in recognition of their agricultural contributions. Kay and Bill were also proud to be honored as the Coming Home King and Queen, a cherished moment in their lives. Kay's legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the many lives she touched through her dedication and kindness. She is survived by her son, Bob Colburn and his wife Meredith; her daughter, Cathy Kinneberg; her sisters, Sylvia Sumner and her husband Max, and Mary Aldridge and her husband Denny; her brothers, Tommy and Gary; her grandchildren, Christen Mory and her husband Robert, Brian Colburn, Allison Walker and her husband Jonathan, and Jennifer Simpson and her husband Christopher; and five great-granddaughters. She is also survived by a host of other family and loved ones whom she cherished dearly. Kay was preceded in death by Billy Joe, her husband of 57 years; parents, Roy E. and Kathaleene Young; brother, Mack Young; 2 sisters-in-law Paula Young and Bitti Young; son-in-law Peter Kinneberg. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 4, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Winters Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Lakeview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Z.I. Hale Museum in Winters, a cause close to Kay's heart. Kay's memory will live on in the many lives she touched and in the legacy of love, strength, and perseverance she leaves behind.

Carolyn Kay Colburn

April 4, 1934 - December 27, 2024