Carolyn R. Draiss, 87, of Athens, New York, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026.

Born on October 28, 1938, in Aiken, South Carolina, Carolyn was the daughter of the late Edna Smith Broome and Clinton Broome.

On July 19, 1958, she married the Paul Carl Draiss in Aiken, South Carolina, and together they shared 67 years together before Paul's passing on November 30, 2022.

Carolyn was a longtime secretary at the Anderson Center for Autism in Staatsburg, New York. She was known for her dedication, reliability, and warm presence. A woman of faith, she was a devoted member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her daughter Rhonda Draiss and her son Greg Draiss and wife Kimberly of Athens, New York; three grandchildren, Matthew Draiss, Abigail Garritson, and Samuel Draiss; and one cherished great-grandchild, Josaih Garritson.

She is also survived by her siblings, Robert Broome, Elaine Riedel, Debbie Faircloth, Bernice Lewis, Connie Prichard, and Hilda Pope.

In addition to her parents, Carolyn was predeceased by her granddaughter, Bethany Draiss.

Calling hours will be on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 1pm to 3 pm at Sweet's Funeral Home, 4365 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538.

Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully request memorial donations to The Arc Greater Hudson Valley, 84 Patrick Lane, Suite 130, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 or www.thearccny.org.