Carolyn Davis Leishman

Obituary

Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Carolyn Davis Leishman, returned to her heavenly home and was embraced by our Savior on May 21, 2025, in Logan, Utah, surrounded by the family she so dearly loved.

Born in Payson, Utah, to Thelma Maureen and Carroll Hardy Davis, Carolyn was the fourth of seven children. She grew up on a farm in Genola, Utah, and from an early age she learned the importance of the gospel and the value of hard work alongside her family. She was always known for the sunshine that she brought everywhere she went. Growing up, music was important to their family, and they all played an instrument. She played the clarinet and loved singing with her siblings around the piano. She enjoyed riding horses, bikes, and swimming in warm springs pond. She loved spending time with her family, friends, and neighbors in Genola. In high school she took typing, shorthand, 10-key, and was also on the drill team. She graduated from Payson High School as a State Sterling Scholar in 1971.

Her parents put a lot of importance on education and school. She was awarded scholarships to both Brigham Young University and Utah State University and she went on to earn a degree in Business Education from USU in 1975. During college she kept a full class schedule and always had a 7 AM class. Even with a full-ride scholarship at USU, she continued working full time to save for her future. During school she was very successful at selling educational books door-to-door during the summers. Carolyn met her eternal companion, Bruce Leishman, while attending USU. He was instantly drawn to her light and strength. They married in the Logan Utah Temple on September 26, 1975. They built a life together centered on Christ, family, and service. Following graduation and marriage she taught typing and history at Payson High school while Bruce finished his education at BYU.

After Bruce graduated from BYU in Business, they relocated to Hyrum, Utah. Carolyn was the heart of the home as they raised their five children. She loved creating a beautiful home that was always clean, full of fun, learning, beauty, and the Spirit. She sacrificed her own needs for her family. She was very frugal and took great care of everything she had. She supported and encouraged her husband and children in all of their goals and aspirations. She attended every sporting event, ran kids in every direction, and instilled confidence in all her children. She had the amazing ability to make all of her children feel like they were her favorite and the most important person in the world. She had a family “cheer” that the family would do together before they left the house each day. She filled her home with music, playing the clarinet, piano, and ukulele. She wrote fun little songs to wake her kids up with in the mornings. She always had something baking in the oven or a gift on the counter to give to a friend or neighbor. She loved having the neighborhood kids around. She was an amazing poet and wrote poems for all of her children’s weddings and other special occasions. In recent years, she felt inspired to return to writing music and hymns and completed several. She also managed apartments in addition to supporting kids activities, church callings, and everything else. She worked alongside her children in the garden, at the apartments, mowing lawns, and other jobs that her children had. She loved hiking, camping, and spending time with everyone together. She relished watching her children grow and progress through college, going on missions, dating, marrying, and starting their own families. She found great joy in planning family adventures whether it was a drive up the canyon or trips around the world.

Her greatest treasure was her role as Grandma to her 21 grandchildren. She would tell you these were the best years of her life. She would always light up when she would talk about them. Each of her 21 grandchildren felt valued, seen, and deeply special to her. She stayed extremely busy attending every grandchild’s various events that included soccer, football, baseball, tennis, dance, cheer, volleyball, and many others. She would always make them feel like they were the best and usually had a little bag of candy to give them. One important thing for her was to pass on family traditions. She especially loved doing the Nativity for Christmas, which was her favorite tradition. Just recently, she wrote a skit for all the grandkids to act out the last week of Christ’s life for Easter. She would always remember the real meaning of holidays but also loved to spoil the grandkids. Carolyn loved to gather and always made sure everyone could be included. It was the most important thing to be with everyone. She spent lots of time at the ranch, both winter and summer, playing, laughing, and enjoying family. In recent years, she packed in many amazing extended family vacations. At every gathering, no matter where she was, Carolyn would share a gospel message and bear her testimony to her grandchildren.

She faithfully served in numerous church callings and found purpose in serving others. Her favorite calling was that of Primary Chorister. Carolyn loved each calling she had and learned early on that it was never about “where” she served but “how” she served. She was as devoted to her ministering/visiting teaching families as she was her Stake Relief Society President calling. She was a gifted gospel teacher, planner, and organizer. She also supported Bruce in his many callings as Bishop and in singles wards, which they both dearly loved. She always acted, never hesitated, and trusted in the Lord. She was a true instrument in His hands and was never timid to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Carolyn was a true disciple of Jesus Christ. She exemplified that by seeking out the one. Through her constant quiet service, she lifted all those she came in contact with and shared Christ's unwavering light and love with everyone. She ministered daily to friends, family, and neighbors by sending a text, sending a note, simply checking in when prompted. She was always taking over a plate of goodies or dinner, listening, and caring about the one. She never sought praise or recognition but did all that she did out of pure love for others. She never spoke ill of others but instead chose to uplift and find the good. Carolyn’s positive outlook on life was what helped her endure many trials with courage, strength, and grace. She found pleasure in the simple things. She enjoyed walking daily and loved to stop and take in the sunset each evening. Her testimony was a beacon of strength, and her legacy is one of faith, charity, and virtue. The rippling effect of her daily acts of service will impact generations to come.

She is survived by her devoted husband Bruce. She would tell you that Bruce has been an amazing husband who has been her rock, her support, and cheerleader. He has been by her side through all the ups and downs and he was always there to support, lift, and help her every step of the way. She is also survived by her five children and their spouses Lana Leishman (Justin Farren), Nathan (Jentré) Leishman, Courtney (Jessica) Leishman, Emily (Ryan) Beus, Jordan (Lisa) Leishman, 21 grandchildren, and six siblings.

She was truly prepared to meet her Savior, whom she loved with all her heart. We will miss her deeply—but rejoice in knowing she is embraced in glory, whole and radiant just as she was in life.

In lieu of flowers, Carolyn would encourage all of us to do an act of service for someone who stands in need. Please take some time to think about those around you and serve someone in a way that Carolyn would.

Carolyn's family wishes to thank all those who helped her, served her, loved her, and cherished her. We also want to thank all those that helped give her care the past few years. She appreciated each one of you.

Go & Serve Others

In lieu of flowers, Carolyn would encourage all of us to do an act of service for someone who stands in need. Please take some time to think about those around you and serve someone in a way that Carolyn would. Post about your act of service below along with a favorite memory of her.

Sheet Music:
Many of you have requested the sheet music of the two pieces Carolyn authored, Think Celestial & My Savior is Wonderful. Please follow the below google drive link to access the sheet music. Thank you!
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tzyuidXybGM3SwQF9XxHqqtNvIGIy_i2?usp=drive_link

Timeline

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Memory wall

June 14, 2025

I am the cousins of the l e i s h m a n because all my grandmother's side Paul Ernest s t e t t l e r mother sorry I did not get to know you I knew my other cousins the ones who lived across the street from my father's house in Logan Utah their last name was l e i s h a m a n like my grandmother's last name her name was Cleo Bradshaw l e i s h m a n s t e t t l e r that is my dad's mother nobody told me in the family you got passed away if they sent me a email I can went to the the funeral but I hope some of my relatives will send me a an email love you l e i s h m a n family where are you where are you at I live in Arizona you can contact me find me in Arizona I live in the city of Tucson

Daniel s t e t t l e r

May 31, 2025

Carolyn was a very spiritual person and showed us that her life was filled with ministering as the Savior. We have always been amazed by her Energizer Bunny activities. Of course, we realize that Bruce needed the same level of energy in order to keep up with her.

We treasure our friendship and send our deepest condolences to the family. We always looked forward to the group picture on Valentine's Day.

It was a beautiful service and brought to our memory the many acts of kindness that Bruce, Carolyn, and Lana have given us as a family. Lana was a dear friend of our daughters.

It is with deep regret that we were not able to attend the viewing and funeral, however, we were able to watch the funeral services. We were temporarily confined to home because of the vicissitudes of life and health.

Gordon & Joleen Olson

May 31, 2025

Carolyn and I shared a love of sunsets. We would often text each other if there was a particularly beautiful one happening to make sure that we were both watching. We would talk about flowers and gardening, nature and all the little things going on in our lives. I will truly miss my sweet neighbor and will always think of her when watching the sunset. 🧡

Kellee

May 30, 2025

Leishman Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved mother, wife, and grandmother taken away too soon. We are glad she didn’t have to suffer. My Nephew went through hell suffering before he died. I do want to tell you that her tradition of a family picture every Valentine’s Day was so special to us and our family. I sure hope you continue the valentines photo with your family!

Rod and Kathern Syrett

May 30, 2025

I have so many wonderful memories of Carolyn. I was her visiting teacher for many years and always looked forward to our visits and conversations. Though I tried my best to serve her, it was more than often that it was I who left as a recipient of a homemade treat or trinket or gift. For Christmas one year, she gifted me a precious little ceramic nativity. Every year when I pull out my decorations for Christmas, I pull out that little nativity and put it on my shelf and remember and give thanks for my dear friend, Carolyn.
But it is something else that stands out in my mind whenever I think about something, an example of "personal Christlike service. Carolyn was my daughter Kaitlyn's young women leader. Kaitlyn really loved her so much. Kaitlyn at that time was totally absorbed and focused on her volleyball career and spent so much time practicing , traveling, and competing. Entering her Junior year in high school, she was blind sighted when at tryouts she was 'cut' from the team. She was absolutely devastated.
That evening the doorbell rang, and I opened the door to find Carolyn on the porch holding an oversized teddy bear who was sporting a bright red ribbon around his neck. Kait came up and Carolyn embraced her and presented her the bear and note. She didn't really say much of anything, she didn't have to. She reached out to the one who was hurting and just loved her, like Jesus had so expertly shown in His earthly example. As a Mom, my heart was so touched to know that as my daughter navigated through her disappointment and hurt, she'd be loved deeply by her young woman leader and friend. As a Mom, my load of grief felt lighter. I'll never forget it.

Jody Roe

May 30, 2025

Growing up in Genola across the street from my neighbors Carolyn and her wonderful family was a joy and a treasure of memories 🩷 she was so kind and genuine 🩷

Karla (Sorensen) Lewis

May 29, 2025

When we 1st met Carolyn as the mother of our future son-in-law, we knew we had “hit the jackpot”. Carolyn radiated joy and magic everywhere she went. Her love, especially for her grandchildren was extraordinary. They would stop cold in the middle of our FaceTime conversation, needing to call their Grandma Carolyn with something more important! She would always answer them, finding the time to listen to whatever was on their minds. She attended all their activities and performances, making every event special with flowers and a bag of candy, (to keep the peace). Carolyn and her sweet spirit will be in our hearts forever. Wendy and Chris Gaddis

Wendy Gaddis

May 29, 2025

I have so many memories, I don't even know where to start. I feel like I grew up listening to Carolyn's beautiful voice. One of my favorite memories is hearing her sing "Oh that I were an Angel" with DeeAnn and Jane.
I remember spending weekdays after school with her for about a month when my parents first moved to Genola. I was in first grade. She would read to me "Where the Wild Things Are" and a book about a squirrel who wasn't kind to his neighbors but they were kind to him. (I'm sure she read others, but those two are my favorite memories.)
When I came home from my mission and lived with you all for a month, it was like I hit the jackpot. I so wanted to be a Mom/person like her. She is so Christ-like and so loving. I will miss her sweet texts and magical laugh. The world is a better place because she was here.

Rachelle Holbrook

May 29, 2025

I shared this with Emily already, but thought I'd share it here.
My favorite memory is from when I lived in Logan for a short time with Grandma Davis (Carolyn's mom). One day in particular, Carolyn came and helped grandma alter her girdles. She was there for over 3 hours making the adjustments. Literally 2 minutes after she finished, my uncle Darwin called. Grandma started whining that she never should have moved to Logan because 'Carolyn never visited her.' I looked over at Carolyn and was like... how do you do this??? You've literally been helping her for HOURS and she tells people you're never here! Carolyn just shrugged her shoulders and said, "She might not remember on this side of the veil, but she will in the next. She'll know that I was here and that I loved her."
I've never forgotten that lesson. No service is wasted! Carolyn was a very special woman and will be greatly missed!

Rosilee Barreto

May 29, 2025

I loved my sweet sister and will miss her. I have prayed for her every day the past four years and she was always in my thoughts. She was a year younger than me so we did everything together growing up. She was my best friend always. We loved singing together for many years, and performed in contests, Genola special occasions, sacrament meetings, funerals, and any other time we were asked. I send my deepest love to Bruce, her children, and her grandchildren. She will be a wonderful memory to all us!

Dee Ann Davis Jensen

May 28, 2025

I spent a lot of time at Lana’s house and her mom was the best! Both of her parents treated me like I was their child. They made me introduce my spouse to them before I got married so they could approve him for me. Carolyn really did always have a smile on her face. She never got annoyed at Nate and Courtney which blew my mind. She just smiled and said oh boys! It was hilarious. I loved spending time at their house. My favorite memory is watching Lana’s secret tv that Lana and the boys bought with their own money, hid in the garage, and watched when Bruce and Carolyn were not home. They were out serving the Lord or at the temple and the kids were home rotting their brains out watching a contraband tv!!!!!!

Joyce Loveridge

May 28, 2025

Carol is one of the nicest person you would find. Bruce was a great bishop in the single wards years ago.

Sheena Zook

May 28, 2025

I could always count on my texts from Aunt Carolyn telling me she loved me. In fact, I received one a few weeks ago out of nowhere. It made my day. We will miss her, and her unconditional love, & smiles so much. I loved my Aunt Carolyn!

Meliss Jensen

May 28, 2025

Our love goes out to the Leishman family! We have such wonderful memories of Carolyn!! She always had a smile and cheered others on. We had the opportunity to hear her bear her testimony of Jesus Christ many times and it strengthened each one of us in our testimonies! She truly was kind and loving, just as the Savior would be. The week before she passed away, she texted me wanting to make sure I was okay, when she herself was in the hospital. She truly magnified the character of Christ!! She has been an example and light! She will be missed by our family!!

Mark and Brenda Beus

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