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June 28, 2024 – Sonoma, CA – The City of Sonoma is pleased to announce the appointment of Carolyn Fulton as the newly created Cemeteries Manager. This pivotal role was established following a comprehensive cemetery study, which recommended the creation of a dedicated position to oversee the expansion of cemetery facilities, enhance support services, upgrade record-keeping systems, and develop marketing and sales strategies. Additionally, the role will focus on landscape and maintenance strategies to ensure the City’s cemeteries continue to serve as cherished historical and cultural sites.
Carolyn Fulton brings over two decades of experience in cemetery management, having served as General Manager at Cypress Hill Memorial Park in Petaluma. Her extensive background in high-level management, administration, and technical oversight makes her an ideal fit for this role. Carolyn’s expertise will be instrumental in enhancing the operations of Mountain Cemetery, Valley Cemetery, and Veterans’ Cemetery, all of which play a crucial role in preserving Sonoma Valley’s history and heritage.
David Guhin, Sonoma City Manager, expressed his enthusiasm for Carolyn’s appointment, stating, “We are excited to add this key position to address the ongoing needs and development of our City’s cemeteries. With Carolyn’s expertise, we are confident that these sacred grounds will continue to be a source of solace, respect, and reflection for generations to come.”
The City’s cemeteries are a testament to Sonoma Valley’s rich history, with grave markers that tell the stories of many civic, economic, and cultural leaders, including General Vallejo and his wife, Francisca Carrillo Vallejo. The cemeteries also memorialize many prominent winemaking, farming, and long-time Valley resident families, such as Sebastiani, McTaggart, Riboni, Ruggles, Dolcini, Bundschu, and Mulas.
Mountain Cemetery, in particular, holds historical significance as one of the oldest continually operated cemeteries in the western United States. It is the final resting place of notable figures such as Captain H.E. Boyes, George Fetters, Franklin Sears, two Donner Party survivors, and possibly even a veteran of the American Revolutionary War, Captain William Smith of Flowerdew Hundred, Virginia.
Carolyn Fulton shared her excitement about joining the City of Sonoma, saying, “I am thrilled about the opportunity to bring my expertise to oversee the operations of Mountain Cemetery, Valley Cemetery, and Veterans’ Cemetery. The City’s commitment to excellence and community service resonates with my own values. I look forward to enhancing the operations of the cemeteries, implementing strategic initiatives, and ensuring the highest standards of service for the residents.”
Carolyn will officially begin her role as Cemeteries Manager on Monday, July 1st, with an annual salary of $109,127. She lives in Petaluma with her husband and enjoys hiking, dance, traveling, and photography. Her appointment marks a significant step in the City’s efforts to preserve and enhance its cemeteries, ensuring they remain integral parts of the community’s heritage and history.
For more information about the City’s cemeteries, visit our website to view frequently asked questions, the Cemetery Price List, and to sign up for future volunteer workdays and more.
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Media Contact:
Sarah Tracy, PIO
City of Sonoma
stracy@sonomacity.org
707-933-2215