Carol Jean Baldwin, affectionately known as C.B. by her loved ones, passed away in Galesburg, Illinois, on December 16, 2023. Born on October 1, 1935, in East Galesburg, Illinois, to the late Orland D. and Martha J. (Mates) Lindsey, Carol’s life was a journey of joy, love, and dedicated service.
C.B. was the beloved wife of Richard E. Baldwin, affectionately known as D.B., with whom she shared 68 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a foundation of family, creating a legacy of love and strength. She was the cherished mother of Penny (Mark) Young and Scott (Melany) Baldwin. Her role as a grandmother was one she held dear, passing on her values to Aaron (Brandi), Nicholas (Sara), Zachary (Emily) Young, Sarah (Pat) Dear, and Andrew (Lauren) Baldwin. The twinkle in her eyes shone brightest when she was with her great-grandchildren Jacob (Kelsey) Young, Mollie Young, Kenzie, Alyssa, and Hayden Musser, and with her adored great-great-granddaughter, Charlotte.
A proud graduate of Galesburg High School, C.B. furthered her education at Western Illinois University. Carol’s professional life was marked by a 22-year tenure at the Knox College Admissions Office, where her warm spirit often tipped the scales for students deciding on their educational futures.
Known by her CB handle, “Motorcycle Mama,” C.B. was full of life and had a distinctive whistle that was permanently etched into the memories of all who heard it including at children’s and, later, grandchildren’s sporting events. Her commitment to the community was evident through her active involvement in the First United Methodist Church, her service with the PTA, and her extensive spoon collection, which was a talking point among visitors.
C.B.’s zest for life extended to her interests. She was meticulous when it came to keeping her house tidy, and she relished in the joys of cooking and spending time with her family. Her love for camping and delight in visits to the casinos were just a few aspects of the adventurous spirit that defined her.
Loving and kind are words that barely scratch the surface in describing C.B. Her impact was profound, touching all who knew her with her generosity and warm presence. Carol Jean Baldwin lived a life marked by love, commitment, and joyfulness; her spirit lives on through the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered by her family and friends.
Memorial visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial services will follow at 3 p.m. Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate. Entombment will be at a later date at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. A celebration of life will follow the services at the Thomas Legacy Center. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Compassus, Knox College, FISH Food Pantry, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
