Phyllis Kandy Carlton

Phyllis Kandy (Bray) Carlton, lovingly known as "Kandy" to all who knew her, passed away at the age of 68 on Monday, February 17, 2025, at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. She was a resident of Waynesboro Post Acute & Rehabilitation in Waynesboro, Tennessee.

 Kandy was born on March 8, 1956, in Milan, Tennessee, to Atlas Eugene Bray and Lydia Ann (Choate) Bray. Throughout her life, she worked in various roles, including seamstress and sewing manufacturing positions at Oshkosh B’gosh and W.S. Wormser, Inc. However, her true passion and most consistent work were as a musician and singer-songwriter. She performed both as a solo artist and with bands, entertaining at venues such as VFWs, Moose Lodges, Country Clubs, and even Opryland.

 On July 5, 1980, she married Roy Wayne Carlton of Greenfield, Tennessee, and they remained together until his passing on January 7, 1988. She later married Joseph “Field” Watkins of McKenzie, Tennessee, on November 10, 1991, before divorcing in the late 1990s.

 Kandy is survived by her two sons, Adam Wayne (Ashley) Carlton of Waynesboro, Tennessee, and Zachary Lucas Carlton of Jackson, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Brian-Austin Wayne (Kyla) Carlton, Ty Alexander Carlton, Gracey Sierra Carlton, and Avery Claire Carlton; and one great-granddaughter, Novaleigh “Nova” Emersyn Rose Carlton.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, Atlas Eugene Bray of Carroll County and Lydia Ann (Choate) Bray of Perry County, as well as all of her siblings: William "Eugene" Bray, Doris Earlene (Bray) White, Thelma Louise (Bray) Rodriguez, Shirley May (Bray) Tinoco, and Lydia Irene (Bray) Azbill. 

There are no words to fully express the depth of this loss. Kandy was more than a mother—she was a source of wisdom, strength, and unwavering love. Her humor, resilience, and musical talent touched so many lives. While our hearts ache, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace, free from pain and suffering. Details regarding arrangements will be shared as they are finalized. At this time, we are uncertain if a service will be possible, but we deeply appreciate the love, prayers, and support from family and friends.

 "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted." — Matthew 5:4 (KJV) 

Mom, I love you, and I will carry you with me always. ❤ 

Adam Wayne Carlton