Carla Kayleen Askew

Carla Kayleen Askew, 76, of Columbus, GA, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026. She was born on July 27, 1949 to the late Gerald Leighton and Frances Anna (Nash) Britt in Sapporo, Japan. She was seven minutes older than her twin sister, Kathy. Carla attended Baker High School where she played the flute in the marching band. She loved going to high school football games! She and Kathy also sang as altos in the All-State Chorus. She graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor's degree in Home Economics.

Carla served the state of Georgia for almost 30 years in the Muscogee County Office of the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS). She was a faithful member of St. Mark United Methodist Church of Columbus, GA and gave of her time and talents to the church. She was the Sunday School teacher for the Friendly Class for many years and taught the Women's Bible Study group. As a mentor, she greatly encouraged others in their faith. She was a gifted alto in the St. Mark UMC Chancel Choir. Always a devoted prayer warrior, she served as the St. Mark UMC Prayer Coordinator for the National Day of Prayer.

Carla was a devoted mother to her two children, Brian and Lauren, and was a single mother for most of their growing up years. Bravely, she fought and beat leukemia and did everything she could to make sure they had what they needed. She faced her share of trials, but she also allowed God to use them. Her relationship with God became real and very precious to her. During this time, she got involved in Precept Bible Studies where she developed a deep love for the study of God's Word. Her church family at St. Mark UMC played a pivotal role not only in her life, but in her children's lives.

Later in life, Carla met James Hoke Askew while working at the Muscogee County DFCS. One of the first things she noticed about him was that he opened every door for her as they entered the building together. He was also taller than her, which was a plus! God blessed them both with a special love story and a second chance at love. They married on September 3, 2006, and Carla gained 3 daughters, sons-in-law, and six grandchildren in addition to her own two children.

Carla is remembered by so many as a sweet woman of faith and a prayer warrior. Her heart was led by caring about people and wanting to know how they were doing. She had a way of making people feel seen and that they mattered.

She is survived by her devoted husband, James Hoke Askew, her son, Brian West (Brad Willis), of Geneva, FL and daughter Rev. Lauren West of Hazlehurst, GA; stepdaughters, Joy Roberson of Franklin, GA, Julie Palmer (Jim) of Edgefield, SC, and Nancy Knotts (Tony) of Lagrange, GA, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Janice Bodrick of Woodbridge, VA, her nephews, Gary Brown, of Fortson, GA and Kevin Brown (Kacey) of Columbus, GA.

There will be a visitation at 12:00 p.m. on Friday May 29, 2026, with the funeral service immediately afterwards at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mark Church, 6795 Whitesville Rd., Columbus, GA.

Flowers will be accepted, but those who wish may make donations to St. Mark Church.

Care and Services are entrusted to Brannen Family Funeral Services. "Our Family Serving Your Family"