With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Candace Marie Carrico, age 28, on August 14, 2025, at home in Corning, California. She was surrounded by family after a brave three-year battle with Small Cell Carcinoma Cervical Cancer.

Born in Lodi, California, she spent her life bringing joy, love, her quick-witted humor, and shining light to the lives of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was a loving wife, mother, foster mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and proud U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant (E-6), serving eight honorable years. Six of those years, she served side-by-side with her husband, Thomas, whom she married in February 2017 in Willows California.

Her military achievements include:

John L. Levitow Award,

19th CES Military Emergency Manager of the Year,

Combat Airlifter of the Week,

60th Civil Engineer Squadron NCO of the Year,

and multiple scholarships and commendations.

Candace is survived by her husband, Thomas John Carrico III; her mother, Julie Henderson, stepfather, Robert Henderson; her father, Brian Muller; her sisters: Janna Dunham (Josh), Alexis Jamerson (Logan), and Anna Henderson (Yolanda); and her beloved nieces: Winter Dunham, RaeAnn & Harper Jamerson.

Candace was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Onyx Jane Marie Carrico, Great Aunt, Patricia Favero, and Grandfather, H. Elmer Muller. While the loss of her daughter and family weighed heavily on her heart, Candace's spirit remained indomitable.

Her dedication to her country was matched only by her commitment to her family and community.

Candace's work ethic and resilience, CDW (Commitment, Dedication, Willpower) inspired many, and will not be forgotten.

Education was important to Candace. She worked two jobs while attending Butte College prior to her enlistment in the Air Force.

Kindergarten through eighth grade, she attended, East, North and West Cottonwood schools. While there she enjoyed playing the saxophone and being in choir. She played basketball and softball for West Cottonwood and Cottonwood Little League. She enjoined volleyball while attending Pleasant Valley Baptist School, Chico CA.

While attending Corning High School, she started her first job, played softball and was a cheerleader before graduating from Corning High School, Class of 2015.

While attending PV, Corning High, and continuing after High School, she was a very active member of the Chico California Highway Patrol (CHP) Explorer Program (post 241) when it started in 2012. She was promoted to Sergeant in 2013, then promoted again in 2014 to Lieutenant. Before leaving in 2017, she was their acting Captain.

Candace graduated with honors with her Associate of Science in Health Sciences and Associate of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences degrees,  setting the foundation for her many aspirations and dreams. She was a vibrant soul who loved life and faced challenges with grace and determination.

Candace's passions included music, sports, education, reading, gardening, house plants, painting, DIY projects, cooking, entertaining, and playing games with family and friends. She would tell people, "Food is my love language", as she loved cooking, and baking amazing gluten free foods and treats. (She loved keeping the gluten free part a secret.)

Candace's laughter was infectious, her smile radiant, and her kindness knew no bounds.

Her celebration of life was be held at;

Red Bluff Community Center, September 27, 2025, at 12:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to join us in honoring Candace's memory during this difficult time.

Candace will forever be remembered for her strength, warmth, and her unwavering spirit. Though her time with us was far too short, her impact on our lives will last an eternity.

As we hold her memory close, cherishing the love she gave, and the light she brought into our lives, it's important to remember:

It's okay to NOT be okay!

"Until we meet again"

Arrangements are held under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary.