09/15/2026
Two Messages from Carole Paxton’s Family
First, Carole and her family want her Big Oaks Family to know how very thankful they are for the many birthday wishes, Facebook messages, cards, and expressions of love sent to Carole for her 90th birthday.
Carole had a fabulous three-day birthday celebration surrounded by family, laughter, and so much love. She wanted to be sure everyone at Big Oaks knew just how much your kindness and all of those wonderful messages meant to her.
I have had the joy of talking with Carole on the phone each of the past four days, including again this morning. Our conversations have been wonderful. She was happy, upbeat, and so excited about the beautiful birthday celebration she had enjoyed. This morning she was telling me again just how good she was feeling and how thankful she was to be feeling so remarkably well at 90 years old.
That is why the phone call I received this afternoon was so difficult.
Carole’s daughter, Jayne, called to let me know that Carole suffered a stroke this afternoon and is currently in the hospital.
Jayne told me that, even in the middle of everything happening around her, Carole kept saying over and over, “You need to get ahold of Tim and let him know.” Finally, Jayne gave in and made the call.
I have to tell you, that touched my heart more than I can put into words.
We are especially thankful tonight for what can only be described as wonderful timing. Carole’s daughter Kim, who lives in Canada, had surprised her by coming home for her 90th birthday celebration. Kim was still there with Carole when the stroke occurred. She immediately called Jayne home from work, and they were able to get Carole to the hospital quickly.
Carole received tPA medication, and Jayne tells me that some of her senses are beginning to return, which gives us reason to be hopeful and thankful. At this time, however, Carole is still unable to move the upper portion of her body.
My heart hurts for my dear friend tonight, but I also know the power of prayer. So right now, I am asking our entire Big Oaks Family to stop for a moment and lift Carole before the Lord.
Lord, we ask for Your healing power to rest upon Carole at this very moment. Touch her body and restore what has been affected. Give wisdom and skill to every doctor and nurse caring for her. Let Carole feel Your presence surrounding her, and let Your perfect peace fill that hospital room.
Please also surround Jayne, Kim, Phillip, and the entire family with your prayers. Ask God to give them strength when they are weary, peace when they are frightened, and the reassurance that they are not walking through this alone.
Carole has brought so much love, laughter, encouragement, and joy into the lives of so many of us over the years. This afternoon, let’s return some of that love by covering our dear Carole in prayer.
And Carole, if these words are read to you later, I want you to know something:
Your Big Oaks Family loves you very much. We are standing with you, we are praying for you, and we are asking God for healing. ❤️🙏
