Emma Carolyn McBride Latham, 97, of Advance, died peacefully at her home Friday, July 18, 2025. Following a period of declining health over the past 17 months, she recently came under Hospice care. Carolyn was a cancer survivor.

Carolyn was born June 11, 1928, in Ansonville, Anson County, to the late James Edward and Bertha Monroe Ballard McBride.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Robert Latham in 1995.

The youngest of three children, she was preceded in death by her two older brothers, James Edward (Ed) McBride Jr. of Wadesboro, and Luther Carlyle McBride of Wilmington.

Survivors include her daughter, Sue Latham Blair (Bob); two sons, William "Bill" Latham, Jr., and Mark McBride Latham; two granddaughters, Erin Jochim (Bart), and Annik Fus; and several nephews.

Carolyn attended Women's College of the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, after which she was employed by Security Life in Winston-Salem. There she met W.R. "Bob" Latham and they were married in 1950.

Making their home in Winston-Salem initially, the Latham's moved to Davie County in the early 70's. They settled in their new neighborhood, making close friendships that endured for decades. During that time Carolyn worked seasonal jobs, and after raising three children, returned to work full-time with the John Dillon Insurance Agency in Winston-Salem.

She excelled in keeping the home running, providing a stable environment in which to thrive. A loyal "pinch-hitter", whenever and wherever the family needed her. A versatile person, Carolyn was skilled in many areas: crafting, drawing, painting, flower gardening, seamstress, as well as an excellent cook and hostess. A modest, humble little lady, just shy of five feet tall, she enjoyed thinking of others first and sharing what she had.

After retirement, the Latham's enjoyed staying at the coast in the company of a few special friends. That was cut short by Bob's illness in 1995. Carrying on as a widow, Mrs. Latham stayed in the family home, making it her priority to provide a place for family and friends to visit. She enjoyed outings and tours with friends. A high school class reunion reconnected her with a high school sweetheart, Jack, also a widower. They had many fun travels and road trips up and down the east coast. In recent years, Carolyn stayed near home much more, enjoying visits with neighbors and her two granddaughters and a grandson (by marriage).

In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to the Humane Society of Davie County, 162 Webb Way, Advance, NC 27006.

Online condolences: www.lambertfuneralhomenc.com