Obituary: Carolyn Renay Carrier, 79, of Ludington

September 9, 2026

Carolyn Carrier

Carolyn Renay (Davis) Carrier, 79, of Ludington, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026 surrounded by family and friends.  Carolyn was born June 11, 1947, in Jonesboro, Ark., the first-born child of James & Beulah Davis (Ezell).

Carolyn was married to Earl Carrier on June 18, 1965.  After a fervent chase by Earl, she finally surrendered her love to him.  About two years later Earl felt the Lord call him into the ministry, which began a long full life of serving others for the two of them.

Carolyn was unable to bear children of her own, however the Lord blessed her and Earl with a full house in so many ways.  They were foster parents for many children over the years in Ludington, six of them were adopted into the family.  Several other young people stayed with the Carriers over the years, were mentored, shown love and released out into the world as thriving adults.  Carolyn was the primary caregiver for Earl’s mother for nearly 12 years.  Many other family members and friends over the years were cared for in the Carrier home when they had needs.

The Carriers were deeply rooted in the Michigan District UPCI, dedicating their lives to ministry and service. They founded a church in Traverse City and later pastored the Ludington church, continuing the legacy begun by Carolyn’s mother, Beulah. Across nearly forty years of pastoral ministry, their influence touched countless lives.

Carolyn, a licensed minister, was frequently invited to speak at ladies’ meetings throughout the state. Her voice became a familiar and cherished presence at Ladies Retreats and smaller gatherings, where her warmth and wisdom resonated deeply. For many years she hosted the Ladies Renewal in Ludington, creating a space of encouragement, fellowship, and spiritual refreshing.

She was also known statewide for her exceptional home cooking — her jams, jellies, lemonade, sweet tea, and unmistakable southern hospitality. The Carrier home was a place of welcome for all. Over the years, they opened their doors to countless people, offering not just a bed for the night, but fellowship, food, hugs, and laughter. Their door was always open, and their generosity left a lasting imprint on everyone who crossed their threshold.

In her final years Carolyn lived at Oceana Medical Care Facility.  Earl visited daily and taught many Bible studies to residents and staff.  Carolyn continued to be a reflection of the Lord and though she could not speak anymore, she was still a witness and light.  Carolyn loved people and loved serving the Lord.  She was a modest women who exuded confidence.  She had a big heart and loved people in a big way with many hugs.

Carolyn was proceeded in death by her beloved son James Kenneth; parents James Davis and Beulah Davis (Ezell) and sister-in-law Kathy Davis.

Carolyn is survived by her husband Earl Carrier; siblings Jim Davis (Janice),  Jan Seymour (Mike), Larry Davis (Sally), Doug Davis (Terri), Betty Speer (Sam); children Ruth Kerns, Tanya Tucker, Matt Carrier, Doug Carrier, Leroy Carrier, Cheryl Hall (Travis), Jen Stakenas (Jeff); eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at Apostolic Christian Tabernacle, 190 North Meyers Road, Amber Township on Monday, Sept. 14, 2026 at 11 a.m., with visitation starting at 10 a.m.  Family encourages all to attend the luncheon that will follow.  Carolyn will be laid to rest at South Victory Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers or plants memorial contributions to Apostolic Christian Tabernacle Missions fund are encouraged.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.

Eats & Drinks

Eats & Drinks