Carolyn Heggins of Hamden, CT, departed this life on July 11, 2019 at Yale-New Haven Hospital (York Street Campus) after a brief illness. She was born on July 2, 1944 in Darlington, South Carolina to the late Willie L. Ellis and Emma Lee Ellis.

She was employed by Circuit Wise of North Haven, CT for many years.

Carolyn was a member of Joy Temple Church and sang in the Gospel Chorus in the earlier years when she attended.

She leaves to cherish her memories, one daughter, Evangelist Gloria Shields of Hamden, CT; a sister, Doris Jean Bruce of Salisbury, NC; two brothers, Pastor E.J. Bruce of Salisbury, NC and T.J. Bruce (Ada) of Statesville, NC; two grandsons, Brandon and Kendall Shields; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by sisters, Evangelist Lola Dubose, Evangelist Anna Marie Grice and Rena Lee Bruce; and a sister in-law, Mary Bruce.

Carolyn was a friendly person, full of life and fun. She will be sadly missed by those who knew her.

A celebration of Ms. Heggins life and legacy will be held Friday, July 19, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. at Joy Temple Church of Christ in Prayer, 424 Howard Ave., New Haven. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery.