CAROLYN LINDSEY POLK,

age 61, passed away suddenly and too soon on Thursday, December 10, 2020. She was born October 28, 1959 in Springdale, Ark., to the late Peggy Gordon Lindsey and Charles Warren Lindsey.

She is also predeceased by her husband, Tommy Polk, and her sister, Mendy Emmerling.

Carolyn is survived by her cherished daughter, Madeleine Rae Polk and Maddie’s significant other, Alex Storm and his family. Also survived by her brother Gordon Lindsey and his family, brother-in-law and nephew Mark and Chris Emmerling, aunt Pat Gordon and her partner Betty Robinson, dear friend Tim Herndon, James Townes, and beloved spoiled dog Finley. Special thanks to James for all his care and love throughout the years to Tommy, Carolyn, and Maddie.

Carolyn attended the University of Arkansas, graduating in 1983 with a Bachelor of Architecture from the Fay Jones School of Architecture. She was valedictorian of her class. She was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and remained involved through alumnae activities. Carolyn and Tommy shared a devotion to the University of Arkansas and were instrumental in raising money through the University of Arkansas Campaign for the 21st Century.

After graduation, Carolyn worked in San Antonio, Texas, and Nantucket, Mass. She established her career in Little Rock working at the firm that became Polk Stanley Wilcox. She left Polk Stanley to work with Ellen Yeary and, along with Jim Yeary, founded Yeary Lindsey Architects where she worked until her death. Carolyn was a highly respected and sought after residential architect and her work is found throughout Arkansas. She was a member and past convention chair of the Arkansas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Until recently, she served on the Board of Adjustment for the City of Little Rock.

Carolyn was a sustaining member of the Junior League of Little Rock and a member of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, serving on various building committees. She loved her book club, Enneagram Group (a classic 2) and her Riviera Condo pals.

Carolyn had a kind spirit and infectious sense of humor. She loved her family and friends who loved her back. We miss her terribly.

There will be a private memorial service. Video and streaming of the service will be available through the Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church Little Rock Facebook page.

Memorials may be made to the Tommy Ray Polk Endowment for Design Excellence and Professional Advancement and mailed to Mary Purvis, Senior Director of Development, Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, 120 Vol Walker Hall, Fayetteville, Ark., 72701. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, RuebelFuneralHome.com.