Ada Eileen (East) Carling

Ada Eileen (East) Carling 

November 3, 1935-September 27, 2023

      Ada Eileen East Carling, 87, passed away peacefully in her home in Pomerene, Arizona, on September 27, 2023, surrounded by many members of her family. 

      Eileen was born on November 3, 1935, at home in Pomerene.  She was the eighth of nine children born to Wallace Nathaniel East and Frances Rachel Scott. 

      During her youth, she assisted with many family enterprises including bee keeping and poultry farming. She learned the value of hard work early, and her work ethic and loving dedication would be qualities she utilized throughout her life. 

       Eileen attended Pomerene Elementary School and graduated from Benson High School, where she was in the girl's chorus, secretary of her junior and senior class and a majorette in the band.

      She married William Richard Baird, Jr. in 1953, and together they had six children. They divorced in 1971. 

      She married Ivan Carling in 1972, who had seven children, and they made a home in Pomerene. Together they had one daughter, Beth, making a total of 14 children. Eileen and Ivan were devoted parents who worked together to create a unified and faithful family.  

       Eileen was a life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She held many church callings during her life, including Stake Relief Society President, Junior Sunday School Coordinator, Relief Society Counselor, Cub Scout Den Leader, Meetinghouse Librarian, and many years as the Humanitarian Aid Coordinator. Eileen and Ivan served a Family History Mission in Salt Lake City, Utah from February 1995 to September 1996.

      Eileen was an extraordinary example of service to others. Throughout her life, she not only cared for her own large family, but compassionately cared for many others, including her aged father and multiple extended family members. She was known for her ability to cook for large groups, and anyone visiting her home could plan on being well fed. She also loved playing games, enjoyed quilting and always had a quilt in process to give as a gift. 

      The Carling family is grateful for the many kindnesses they have received from their community of friends during Eileen’s time of declining health and are especially grateful for the prayers offered on their behalf. 

      Eileen is survived by her sister, Ruby Thomas of Kirtland, New Mexico and her 14 children;  Deborah Hardy (Doug), Mark Carling (Linda, deceased), Doreen Ray (Lynn), Pamela Wallace (James), Luraly Warner (Brian), Murlyn Carling (Kristi), Jayne Pulsipher (Paul), Jay Carling (Lupita), Stuart Baird (Marjie), Janet McLellan (Andrew), Eric Carling (Thea), Rick Baird (Jo), Todd Carling (Helen), and Beth Jones (Derek), 64 grandchildren, 157 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. 

      A gathering for family and friends will be on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Pomerene Chapel. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. For those that are not able to attend in person, please join us at 11:00am for the funeral via ZOOM. https://zoom.us/j/94630136736

      In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Missionary Fund.  

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