Carolan Exon Underwood was returned to the warmth and comfort of God August 28, 2012.  She fought a painful third battle with cancer this time of her lung, and she fought as long as she could until God heard her cries and extended his arm to return her home.

Carolan was born December 22, 1945 in the parking lot of the Sugar Bowl, with such an auspiscious beginning the world had no idea the joy that approached. She attended Jefferson City High School , graduating in 1963. Her collegiate accolades included her Bachelors from the University of Kansas, and her Masters degree in English from Florida State University. She was married in the Panama Canal Zone to Kenneth Underwood while working for Army Intelligence. She had two children and returned to Missouri to share her joy with her parents. Back in Missouri she worked as an editor for the Secretary of State and eventually Director of Administrative Rules. She also taught high school English at Helias. She played the organ to the delight of so many at First Presbyterian Church for 22 years. She raised her two boys as a single devoted mother, juggling 2 jobs the entire time. Her joys in life and loves she participated in are numerous and proud. She was a longtime member of Cantorum in the alto section. She served as President and member of the local FS chapter of PEO. She was an active member of Tuesday Club. She spent many years assisting in the production of Friday Night Live, a local Public service station staple. She is survived by her parents, Dr. Charles Stuart Exon and Anne Exon. Her brother Charles Stuart Exon II, sisters Ellen Burns and Peggy Falk, two adoring sons Kenneth Lee Underwood and Stuart Underwood, and her beloved grandchildren Lucianna Uriel Underwood, and Stuart Bradford Underwood II. Carolans true joys in life were music and family, every holiday to her was a special one musically and for the gift of family. She loved to play with her grandchildren. Her joy, intelligence, sense of humor, and absolute unwavering love will never be forgotten nor dismissed by her family or close friends. There will forever be a void in all our hearts that only Carolan could fill. R.I.P. Mom, Mamaw, daughter, sister, and friend we will always love you with all we are.