Carolyn Brokaw Houghton

Carolyn Doris Brokaw Houghton, who passed from this world on June 26, 2024 at 96 years old, was the loving mother of three daughters and devoted wife to William J. “Bill” Houghton. Carolyn was born on February 18, 1928 to Kenn and Bea Brokaw. Together with her parents and her older sister Lucy, they weathered the Great Depression, and World War II. They learned to make happiness out of what they had, in each other’s company. Carolyn and Bill met in Los Angeles, and married in 1949. After 63 years of loving marriage, Bill passed away in 2012.

Carolyn moved people with her singing. She discovered her voice in her teenage years, finding a well of joy and fulfillment that continued to grow throughout her life. Classically trained, Carolyn performed professionally, enriching her community wherever she lived. She sang for more than 30 years in the San Diego Master Chorale. We imagine she is now joyously singing again, gracing the choirs in heaven.

Known by all as a positive and gentle person, Carolyn was an example of how strength can come in surprising packages. She was admired for her grace, courage, and unwavering patience. Her kindness touched everyone she met, and her optimism was an inspiration to us all. She was an active, contributing and much loved member of her church, and her community. Carolyn was a resident of San Diego for 52 years.

Carolyn is survived by her three daughters, Luanna Quirk and husband Jim, Colleen Zablit and husband Karim, and Wendy Martin and husband Bob; nine grandchildren she loved and cherished, Bodie and wife Heidi, Hailey and husband Jeff, Robert, Michael and wife Meagan, Laura, Willie, Miles, and Cole; four great grandchildren she adored, Marley, Blaise, Clara, and Oliver; nephews and nieces William Tonnesen and wife Pilar, Sharon Brown and husband Ben, Sandy Tonnesen and wife Deb Paczynski, Ken Schafer; and grand-nephews and nieces Pau Tonnesen, Gaspar Tonnesen, Cinta Tonnesen, and Matthew Schafer.

A memorial service will be held at Pioneer-Ocean View United Church of Christ on Sept 14, 2024 at 10:30 am, 2550 Fairfield Street, San Diego, CA 92110. Donations may be made in lieu of flowers in memory of Carolyn Houghton, to POV United Church of Christ http://povucc.org

or to the San Diego Master Chorale https://www.sdmasterchorale.org/donate/