Alma Barnes Carawan, 95, passed away Saturday, October 23, 2021. Alma was born in Roanoke Rapids, NC, to the late Rosa Lee and Bernie Sylvester Barnes. She was married to her sweetheart, Christopher C. Carawan, for 74+ years before his death in March 2020.

Alma was a very accomplished homemaker, raising their three children: Cindy, Chris Jr. and Debbie. She was known for making the best pound cakes, banana puddings, red velvet cakes and scrambled eggs. Alma loved to crochet, having made afghans for each one of her children and grandchildren. Her yard and flowers were always a source of pride. She enjoyed playing golf and traveling to the beaches and the mountains with family and friends. Alma always looked forward to the times when family and friends stopped by to visit. Spending time and going shopping with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great joy. Lately, sitting on her porch enjoying the beautiful weather and neighborhood filled many hours of her days.

She and her husband, Chris, were active members of First Christian Church in Columbia for over 65 years. Whenever there was any kind of event, bake sale or not, she was there with a homemade "goodie".

Survivors include her beloved son, Chris Carawan, Jr. (Renee); four grandchildren, Todd Derrick, Shannon D. Hopkins (Chad), Christopher Carawan (Jennifer), and Kellie Carawan; four great-grandchildren, Will Carawan, Morgan Hopkins, McCade Hopkins and Carson Hopkins; son-in-law, George Derrick (Connie); and as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Alma was preceded in death by her husband, Chris; daughters, Cindy C. Derrick, Debbie E. Carawan; brother, Edgar Barnes and his wife, Florence, and later his wife, Gloria: sisters, Joann Bright (Bobby), and Phyllis Hughes (Bobby).

A graveside service for Mrs. Carawan will be held 1:00 o'clock, Monday, November 1, 2021, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery with the Rev. Chuck Clary officiating. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. All are welcome to attend, however, masks and social distancing practices are strongly encouraged to ensure everyone's safety. A livestream of Mrs. Carawan's service may be viewed by visiting her tribute page at ShivesFuneralHome.com. Following the service, the family will greet friends at the residence.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Christian Church, 2062 N. Beltline Blvd, Columbia, SC, 29204.

The family wishes to thank Alma's many friends and church family for their friendship throughout her life.