Carolyn Vining

They are not gone; their memory will dance in our hearts forever..

Obituary

Carolyn Vining lived a life filled with grace, devotion, and a spirit that never stopped moving. She passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Missoula, Montana, on May 11, 1954, to Donald and Lorraine Crosser, Carolyn grew up with a gentle, steady presence and vibrant energy. She attended Beaverhead County High School in Dillon, Montana, where she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. She later attended Western Montana College, where her lively spirit shone as a cheerleader throughout both her high school and college years.
It was during her time in college that she met the love of her life, Brad Vining. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage; a partnership grounded in loyalty, laughter, and unwavering devotion that became a constant source of strength for the entire family. They began their family in Hamilton, Montana, later returning to Missoula so Carolyn could complete her pharmacy degree at the University of Montana. Soon after graduation, a new opportunity led Brad and Carolyn to Glendale, Arizona, where they built a beautiful life and remained ever since.
Carolyn was a proud and devoted mother to her two sons, Tony and Tim, shaping their lives with compassion, humor, and unconditional love. She welcomed her daughters-in-law, Maritza Aguirre and Leesa Vining, into the family with open arms and a generous heart. Among her greatest joys were her grandchildren—Chase, Hunter, Cainen, and Ryder—and her bonus grandchildren, Patricia and Gabriel, all of whom she adored and celebrated wholeheartedly. She was also dedicated sibling who will be missed sorely by Cathy, her loving sister and Mike, her brother.  
As a dedicated pharmacist, Carolyn served her community with compassion and precision, offering care and comfort to countless individuals. Over her distinguished career, she initially worked at Revco, brought her expertise to several independent pharmacies (including Goot Pharmacy, AZ Home Care, S & G Pharmacy, and Rosie’s Pharmacy), and later served at Bashas' before retiring from City of Hope. For Carolyn, her work was far more than a profession; it was a natural extension of her generous heart.
Beyond her professional life, Carolyn found a lifelong passion in ballroom dance; a language she used to express joy, resilience, and connection. For over 17 years, she danced alongside her partner, Nick, at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio. Together, they earned numerous titles, honors, and accolades, culminating most recently in her proud achievement as a World Champion. Whether performing on a grand stage or simply moving to the music, she carried a rhythm that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Those who knew Carolyn will forever remember her warmth, her laughter, and her outgoing, vibrant personality. She was the kind of person who could light up a room simply by walking into it. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched, every dance step she performed, and every cherished memory held close by those who loved her.

She will be deeply missed, always celebrated, and forever treasured.

Timeline

1973

Stepped into a new chapter, marrying the love of her life.

Gallery

Memory wall

July 5, 2026

To a beautiful soul I will always cherish our chats!
You were indeed one of a kind and will never be forgotten.

Irma Arias

June 24, 2026

Carolyn always encouraged me to have fun and was there from my very first days at Arrowhead with my son. We took a hiatus but returned to Goodyear with Nick and Laura she was the first to welcome us back and was so happy when not only I came back but Dominic. She wasn’t his blood but she took him in and always encouraged him to just dance and be free.she was one of his biggest supporters. She loved him like her own grandchild and love to see him dance. Thank you for always shining your light and wisdom on us. Your presence will be miss but your love will always be etched in our hearts.

Marisol & Dominic Grabowski

June 21, 2026

My husband and I had been taking lessons at the dance studio for about 2 weeks when there was a student recital. Carolyn danced with Nick and I thought I'd never seen anyone move as beautifully and gracefully in my life. She was so full of fire - and tremendously supportive of other dancers. She meant so much to me and I miss her like crazy.

Chris Russin

June 20, 2026

I was blessed to have met Carolyn at Arthur Murray dance studio. When I first saw her dance I thought I wanta be her when I grow up. She was always full of life and energy and positivity. Her hugs were warm and welcoming. It was a joy watching her glide across the floor and we all could feel the love she had in her soul for dance. Heaven surely got an angel in Carolyn. We love and will miss her dearly.

Heather Racino

June 19, 2026

I met Carolyn through Arthur Murray’s dance studios. I am so sad to hear of her passing. She was a bright star on and off the dance floor, endlessly cheerful and engaging, enormously talented and fun, and always supportive of new students. She was a friend to all, including me and my wife. Man, I will miss her.

Keith Zollman

June 19, 2026

Carolyn was so nice to me the few years I danced at the studio. I truly looked forward to seeing her and our brief talks. Her dancing was so beautiful.

Kathleen Schmitt

June 19, 2026

Carolyn was truly unforgettable—kind, joyful, loving, and absolutely unstoppable.
My life and my dancing are richer because she was part of them. I’ll always treasure the hugs, laughter, and memories we shared.
Every time I see my palomino named Unstoppable or put on my red boots, I’ll think of Carolyn and smile.
What a gift it was to know her. ❤️

Gladys Booher

June 19, 2026

Carolyn was the first student I met on my first day I was at the studio. In the 4+ years I have known her she has always encouraged me. Carolyn always had cinnamon gum. She shared a piece with me every time we were at the studio together.

Kelly Spencer

June 18, 2026

I am beyond grateful for the friendship we shared through dance. She helped me get started on the right foot, and together we made so many wonderful memories dancing in MTVs and creating the KC Show. I will deeply miss our daily conversations, her friendship, and the joy she brought to so many. Carolyn was one of my closest friends. She will always be remembered and so greatly missed. Love you!

Karen Klingberg

June 18, 2026

What a great loss for a most wonderful lady. She will be known for her humility, values, lovely character, exceptional charm, and that warm smile. She made each person she met feel listened to and cared about and was always a helpful friend and talented pharmacist. Carolyn could explain and comfort with great ease. Love to the family. God blessed us with Carolyn.

Barb and Lee Sanderson

June 18, 2026

I want to say it one more time, I love you my friend.

Lin Winters

June 18, 2026

Old friend, I am so sorry to hear, by way of Facebook, of Carolyn’s passing, June 6th.
Even though I never had the pleasure of meeting, or getting to know Carolyn, I saw many many Posts of her unbelievable Dance Career, and your lives together, for the last 10 years, or more.
She was a beautiful person, I’m sure.
My Thoughts and Prayers are with you and your entire Family, Brad…

Jim Galt

June 18, 2026

I will never forget the way that Carolyn took me under her wing at Dance. I was just a baby, just a kid, New to the veterinary profession, trying to find my way through life. And she always opened her arms to me with an opens heart and a generous spirit. Words can’t properly convey the sadness in my heart that she is gone. I never got to say goodbye and I will forever regret that. I hold her in my heart and was always grateful that she chose to be my “dance mom.” I miss her every day, she will live on forever inside of me.

Ryane Englar

June 17, 2026

I am saddened to hear of Carolyn's passing. I wish your family peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult time.

Joy Clay

June 17, 2026

We loved Carolyn as a friend from the moment we met her 54 years ago! She was a warm, energetic, positive thinking, beautiful woman that was always moving toward a bright future. She will be missed by those like us who were lucky to call her friend. We are sure Heaven has a beautiful dance floor for her.

Don & Leslie Rich

June 17, 2026

At our age, we begin to come to grips with end-of-life reality. Nothing prepared me for the loss of Carolyn. Though decades have passed since seeing each other, memories of Carolyn remain close in my heart. Friend, neighbor, classmate, daughter of my employer in high school, and more. Her soul and spirit were one of a kind. I honor and celebrate Carolyn's life, and mourn with those to whom she was close, and precious. May comfort and strength come strong and remain long.

John Poundstone

June 16, 2026

We are very sorry to hear of Carol’s passing. Our prayers are with your family and friends. 🙏 🙏

Michael and Tammy Redl

June 16, 2026

It is so sad on hearing of Carol’s passing. Carol was full of life and fun to be around. It was 27 years ago that Carol Brad our children and other friends traveled to LV for the Bronco’s Super Bowl. We had such a wonderful time together. Thereafter we had watched her dancing videos and seen her when visiting our daughter. She always was so positive. Our condolences and prayers go out to Brad and the boys.

Paul and Janis Coppolino

June 16, 2026

I am so sorry to hear this. Carol was absolutely lovely. My heart goes out to you guys.

Susie Bowen (Coppolino)

June 16, 2026

Sorry for your loss. Praying for all of you. She was a great lady!

James carter

Family tree

Donald Crosser

Lorraine Crosser

Brad Vining

Cathy Crosser

Mike Crosser

Tim Vining

Children

Hunter Vining

Ryder Vining

Tony Vining

Children

Chase Vining

Cainen Vining

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Cathy Crosser

Mike Crosser

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Brad Vining

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Tim Vining

Hunter Vining

Ryder Vining

Tony Vining

Chase Vining

Cainen Vining

Carolyn Vining

Service