Carolyn Hershberger Obituary

Carolyn Hershberger passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025. She was a caring woman whose kindness was only surpassed by her love of her family. She could tell stories with her beautiful voice that would draw people in from other rooms to listen. She had a contagious laugh and would throw her head back with joy. You could always count on her to listen and offer the warmest and wisest advice. She was selfless. She loved her family fiercely, and she will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Carolyn was born on April 24, 1952, the daughter of John and Dorothy (Murphy) Watson. She was a sister to Peggy Petronko (Cliff) and John Watson (Diane). Her family stayed together and shared each other's celebrations, holidays, and sorrows, all living within minutes of each other. They were not only family, they were friends. Carolyn married Don Hershberger on April 5, 2008. He gave her a life of joy from a shared love of our savior Jesus Christ. She adored him, and speaking of him always brought a smile to her face. Anyone who knew Carolyn knew that her children and grandchildren were her heart. She had a fierce protector, best friend, and confidante in her daughter Karie Wilson (Paul). They were blessed to have such a beautiful relationship. Karie never failed to be by her mom's side. Joe Humberger (Heather), her son, always made her laugh. She could call him, and he was always able to brighten her day. She counted on him for advice. She was a wonderful mother-in-law to Paul and Heather. She always made everyone feel loved and included. Carolyn was the best "Granny" to her grandchildren, David, Anna, Alec, and Cameron. This was the role she was most proud of. She loved nothing more than baking with them at the holidays, hosting slumber parties for them, reading to them, and making up stories with them. Holidays with her were magical, from Halloween parties to Easter egg hunts, to Thanksgiving meals to Christmas light-up nights. She made sure their memories were rooted in traditions. She encouraged and loved them endlessly always their loudest cheerleader. She also had a special relationship with her nephews, Kirk Watson and Matt Petronko; and her niece, Sandy Watson. She was a vital part of their childhoods and always spoke of them proudly and lovingly. Carolyn was loved tremendously by her family and friends. Her loss is devastating. Family and friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, at LOPATICH-BRINKER FUNERAL HOME LLC, 601 Weldon St., Latrobe. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in the funeral home with Rev. Adam Kravets officiating. Interment will follow at Unity Cemetery. Please send donations to Action for Animals in her memory. To sign the online guest book, send condolences, or share a story, please visit www.lopatichbrinker.com.