Carolyn Leathers (Lansing)

“Spirit Was Never Born – Therefore Spirit Never Dies”

Ms. Carolyn Jean Leathers was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 23, 1953. She was the second child born to James and Bessie Lawson. Carolyn’s earliest education was on the south side of Chicago attending Pershing Elementary School where she first experienced racial diversity. She said, “There are some kids in my class so clean you can look at their skin and not see brown.” (Mother had some explaining to do.) Dunbar in Tulsa, Oklahoma was next where she demonstrated her musical ability playing violin in the orchestra. She graduated from Carver High School in Memphis, Tennessee. where she performed in the Glee Club. She attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga before moving to Lansing Michigan where she was joined in Holy Matrimony to Moses Leathers. To this union two sons were born; Lawrence Benjamin and Brandon DuShaun.

Carolyn accepted Christ at an early age and participated in most youth events even when her “nerves” were challenged. She would ask for a longer Easter speech but looked frightened as her name was called. When asked why, she explained, “When I stand up my stomach sits down.” But that never stopped her. Self-taught on the piano, Carolyn served as musician for New Hope Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. She also sang and played guitar with the WLM singers. Carolyn loved music. It was in her DNA which she obviously passed on to her sons.

Carolyn enjoyed a 38 ½ year career with Auto Owners Insurance Company where she was rewarded for performance and earned several recognitions for length of service. In 2012 she reluctantly left active service due to health challenges but was able to maintain many relationships developed over the years.

Throughout the years, she held steadfast to her convictions, and was determined to succeed. She remained a living force; always looking to the future and never considering throwing in the towel.

She continued to study the Word of God, and served her church in various capacities:
- Choir
- Women’s Fellowship and service outreach
- Church Photographer
- Involvement in youth ministries
– AWANA and Vacation Bible School
- Audio Visual ministry

Additionally for a number of years, she also faithfully participated in Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) and the annual retreats “Just Us Girls”; an organization of Christian women. In memory of her, donations to “Just Us Girls” Scholarship Fund to sponsor deserving women’s participation. To Carolyn, life was about family, faith and friends. She will always remain a great example for family and friends alike.

On Sunday August 20th, 2017, Carolyn made her transition from this life into eternity. She is survived by her two loving and talented sons: Lawrence (LB) and Brandon; five sisters: Janice (Melvin) Stewart, Annette (Terry) Black, Paulette Lawson, Carolyn Moore, Audrey Lewis; six brothers: Elder James (Sherrol) Lawson, Rev. William Lawson, Charles (Robyn) Lawson, Apostle Andrew Robinson, Arthur Lawson and Rickey (Natalie) Peoples; one aunt: Velma Webb; one uncle: Deacon Harry (Mary Ann) Cooper; many special nieces, nephews and cousins; Special friends Rev. Dr. Lee and Minister Shirley June; several faithful “sister” friends; and a host of other family, church members and friends.