Carolyn Matthews was born to Estelle Willis and Edward Cross on November 21, 1945 in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. The middle child of three her eldest brother Edward " Babs" Cross and her late brother brother Barnio "Tommy" Cross.

Carolyn worked for the New Jersey Department of health and senior services as a home health aid where she dedicated 10 years of her life. She then decided that she couldn't do the job any longer because she would become too attached to the patients and eventually it took a toll on her emotionally.

She married the love of her life late husband Mitchell Matthews the love of her life .

In her younger years Carolyn sang in a band and loved to dance. She loved to read the Bible and pray every morning. Carolyn never stopped trying to be the boss of her children even after they all became adults. She was a loving, giving most inspiring person you could ever have the honor of knowing. she would do anything for the people she loved. Mommy you are gone but your memory will forever live in our hearts.

She is survived by her six loving children Tina Cross, Isiah Cross, John Cross, Robert Sheppard, Scott Sheppard and Tyrone Sheppard. Carolyn was blessed with three daughter in laws Liz Cross, Val Cross and Jocelyn Sheppard. She was a grandmother to 26 Grand and Great grandchildren.