November 29, 1920 – March 29, 2011

Rayda Arleen Carlson, 91, of Orrick, Mo., died Tuesday evening , March 29, 2011 at her home in Orrick.

Rayda was born on November 29, 1919 in Ellenburg, N.Y., to John and Cora Brooks. She had lived in Orrick for the past three years. Rayda had worked as a therapy aide for over 28 years for the State of New York before retiring on April 1, 1976. After her retirement, she worked for nursing homes and hospitals until 1995. She was a member of the protestant faith.

She loved to crochet and knit. She also loved to bake and decorate cakes.

Rayda was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Carl Albert Carlson in 1967.

Survivors include a son, Carl Carlson of Orrick, Mo., two daughters, Barbara Carlson of Orrick, Mo., and Sandra Lee Baldwick of New Milford, Conn., a son, Terry Chattelle of California, and a sister, Huertta of New Haven, Conn. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren.

The family will greet friends on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick. Memorial services will immediately follow at 5 p.m. at the funeral home. Inurnment will be in the First Congregational Church Cemetery in Sherman, Conn.

Condolences

I will think of you always. I will remember our rides and visits fondly. We will always have Harry Brook Park! I love you, Nan.
Cece Carlson

I am so glad that you always accepted us and loved us from the day we met you……… You will be greatly missed and always LOVED AND REMEBERED……. Rest Peacefully Old Lady!!!!!
Devon Kenny

I will never forget the times me, Cece and Chip played in the yard at your place. Or the endless treats you had for us when we were so little. Or you having to chase us around to give us a spanking when we needed it. I love you, nan.
Tom Carlson

Nan,we will always have you in our hearts and minds. I will always remember how you always had food and junk food and that was great. I will always remember the talks and how you helped me and our family. Thanks for being our grammother. I love you and we all will not forget you.
Matthew Whitmore

Rayda was a constant, steady person that was always there if needed. Her nature was serious a lot of times when younger, but dependable. She enjoyed having family members around greatly. Rayda taught me how to knit, crochet. She was feisty and energetic. As soon as Spring showed, picnics were a mainstay at Harry Brook Park as I recall… Her beautiful plants were lush and she made sure they stayed that way. Hardworking, now she can rest… My sincere condolences to all of the family…
Terri Benjamin