Carolynn June (Rahner) Oliver

Carolynn June Oliver, a beloved wife, mother, stepmother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, just ten days shy of her 83rd birthday.

Born on November 2, 1942, to George and Elva Rahner, Carolynn grew up with a deep appreciation for beauty, grace, and life’s simple joys. From an early age, she discovered her passion for ballet, and her love of dance remained a defining part of her life. Her grace and determination—both on stage and in spirit—were reflections of the strength and kindness that guided her through every chapter of her life.

Carolynn was first married to Ronald Newsom Sr., and together they had two sons, Kenneth Newsom and Ronald Newsom. She later married Dennis Oliver, and the two spent many happy years living in Florida, where she loved the warm weather and the welcome escape from Pittsburgh winters. Eventually, they returned to Carnegie to be close to family once again—a decision that brought Carolynn great comfort and joy in her later years.

Carolynn’s grandchildren adored her. She celebrated their every joy and accomplishment with genuine happiness and pride, and when they faced challenges, she was always ready with sound advice and a comforting heart. Her love for her family was steady and unconditional, a guiding light that will continue to shine through them.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dennis Oliver; her sister, Janet Rahner; her parents, George and Elva Rahner; and her son, Ronald Newsom.

Carolynn is survived by her son, Kenneth Newsom; her stepdaughters, Darcie Lantz, Melissa Oliver, and Karie Parker; and her niece, Elizabeth Dawson. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Angela Newsom, Crystal Juarez, Amber Newsom, Kenneth Newsom Jr., Ashley Sambol, Clayton Oliver Lantz, Alexandra Zimbicki, Jacob Zimbicki, and Joshua Zimbicki; and her great-grandchildren, Cruz Juarez, Dominic Juarez, Gavin Juarez, Shiann Dosdor, Kadence Dosdor, Quintin Bryant, Wesley Newsom, Allison Popp, Owen Lopez, Elijah Sambol, Judah Sambol, Anna Sambol, and Ada Sambol. Her warmth, positivity, and unwavering spirit will live on in each of them.

In keeping with her wishes, Carolynn did not want a formal service. She asked instead that those who knew and loved her remember her the way she was in life—joyful, kind, and full of love.

Carolynn’s life was a dance—graceful, strong, and full of heart. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

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