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.

Gallery

Memory wall

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