Carol Ruth Uselton, born on July 7, 1955, in Nashville, TN, passed away peacefully in Nashville on January 21, 2026. A beloved matriarch, Carol dedicated 28 years of her professional life to the Corrections Corporation of America as an Accountant. Her commitment to her career was matched only by her passion for family, gardening, and cooking.

Among the many cherished memories of her family was her role as a nurturing figure in the lives of her children. She lovingly taught her sons how to play baseball, imparting the skill of throwing a curveball. Family cookouts were a highlight of her gatherings, where her BBQ chicken was a much-loved favorite. Carol's green thumb brought joy to her family as well, especially when her daughter Melissa followed her advice on drawing hummingbirds to the yard; this year, over 50 hummingbirds, a testament to her thoughtful guidance. The big garden on Oak Grove Road served as a vibrant backdrop for many family moments.

Carol was known for her strong, spunky spirit that combined sassiness with a deep sense of love and kindness. She was also notably stubborn—a trait many admired, reflecting her determination. Her hobbies included growing a flourishing garden, nurturing live plants, cooking delightful meals, and enjoying shopping trips. She took pride in her role as a mother and grandmother, finding joy in the smiles of her children and grandchildren, and her accomplishments in bowling and golf brought her great satisfaction.

Carol is survived by her children: David Wayne (Leslie Barrett) Hemontolor, Jr., Melissa Dawn (Chris) Burton, and Justin Tyler (Kristin Ward) Bragg; her loving grandchildren Darrin Mason (Terri) Hemontolor, Ella Elizabeth Hemontolor, Kyleigh Dawn (Hope Aldridge) Burton, Audrey Jade Bragg, Gabe Hall, Bobby Ward, Hunter Ward, and Faith Ward; along with her great granddaughter Kaylee Hemontolor and Inez Ward. She is also survived by her brothers Robert Lee Uselton, David Wayne (Rhonda) Uselton, and Linda Gail (Steve) Slater, as well as her sister-in-law Tammy Uselton. Additionally, Carol leaves behind her significant other, Allen Markle, and a host of nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Sarah Cannon and SCRI for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Carol during her time with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mary Nell Uselton, and her brothers Thomas M. Uselton and William J. Uselton.

A visitation in honor of Carol will take place on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Springfield Memorial Gardens, Funeral Home & Cremation Center, located at 4005 Memorial Blvd, Springfield, TN. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will be held at the same location at 1:00 PM with Brother Donny Bryant officiating, concluding with her burial at 2:00 PM with Darrin Hemontolor, Robert Norman, Chandler Barrow, Josh Phillips, Tony Reed, and Kevin Ryman serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearer will be DJ Norman.

Carol Ruth Uselton will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her vibrant spirit and the immense love she shared with all who knew her.