Carolyn Sue Winnett, 91, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026.  Born on Christmas Day 1934, in Greenup, IL, Carolyn was a sweet, yet strong person whose hobbies were reading, entertaining family and friends, and volunteer work.

Her passion for literacy and food security led her to serve on the Wood River Library Board and Foundation Board, and she was the driving force behind TWIGS, the city's Free Summer Lunch Program.  Professionally, Carolyn was a real estate broker and worked in the Human Resources department at Wood River Hospital.

Carolyn is survived by her children, Mickie (Bob) Compton, Stephanie Schuppan, Susie (David) Knetzer, and Joan Bender.  Grandchildren, Chris Knetzer, Brian Knetzer, Michelle Compton, Alicia Renick, Alex Bender, and Julie Bender.  Great grandchildren, Justin Knetzer and Addison Knetzer. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Steve Winnett; sister, Marilyn Kuykendall and son-in-law, Ken Schuppan.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Operation Blessing - Wood River ,18 E Lorena Ave, Wood River, IL 62095  or LifeWise STL , in memory of Carolyn Winnett. Your support will help carry forward the values and love Carolyn shared throughout her life.

Thank you to EverTrue Senior Living for the caring and support they gave Carolyn for the last eleven years.

A funeral service will be held at EverTrue Meramec Bluffs Chapel (50 Meramec Bluff, Drive, Ballwin MO 63021) on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.  The interment will be at Harmony Cemetery in Greenup, Illinois on Sunday, March 22, at 1:00 p.m. Please share memories of Carolyn and condolences with the family in the online guest book at Schrader.com.