Carla Holloway, age 49, was a woman with a big personality, a loving heart, and a spirit that left a lasting mark on everyone blessed to know her.

Carla was a devoted sister. Protecting her sister was a responsibility she proudly gave herself. Whether Amanda wanted Carla's extra supervision or not, Carla was always watching, always checking, and always making sure she was okay. Her protective nature was proof of just how deeply Carla loved the people who belonged to her.

Among those who belonged to Carla was Becca Martin-Brown who stepped in and changed her story. To Carla, she was simply "Mama Becca." Their bond was rooted in the kind of unconditional love every person deserves. Carla knew who showed up for her when her bio family left her behind. She knew who loved her. In her own special Carla way, she returned that love — through trust, loyalty, laughter, and always knowing exactly who her mama was.

Carla was protective, opinionated, stubborn in the best ways, and incredibly funny. She loved the simple joys of life — hamburgers and French fries, chicken, cookies, cake, and, of course, a new outfit. In Carla's eyes, anything new was a possible addition to her wardrobe.

She also took great pride in helping keep the world clean. No piece of trash was safe when Carla was around. Wherever she went, she was ready to help, often repeating her famous words: "Trash, trash, trash."

Carla had a humor all her own. One of her newest favorite sayings was "You have a big head, big head, big head," and she knew just how funny she was when she said it.

In her final year, Carla grew in ways many once thought impossible. She went from being completely nonverbal to speaking full sentences when she had something she wanted to say. She would repeat new words, share her thoughts, and make herself known — but only on Carla's terms. And when she didn't want to listen? Carla had no problem turning off those ears and pretending she didn't hear a thing.

During her time at Young Homes, Carla truly flourished. While parts of her past remained unknown, and she sometimes seemed to carry memories from a life before us, she found comfort, happiness, and belonging with the people around her. Her peers, her staff, her friends became her family.

Carla's life was not defined by what she could not do, but by everything she became. She was a protector, a helper, a comedian, a friend, and family. She taught those around her patience, laughter, acceptance, and the beauty of celebrating every victory — big or small.

Carla was loved, she belonged, and she will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M., on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the funeral home.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.