Ms. Carolyn Greene, one of the founding pillars of the George Henry White Memorial Health and Education Center, passed away on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC.
When the vacant farmhouse was donated to the Benjamin and Edith Spaulding Descendants Foundation by Dr. Milton Campbell and Ms. Wanda Campbell Clay in 2015, only those with tremendous heart and vision could perceive how that century-old building could be brought back to life. Ms. Carolyn was such a person.
To transform the aging structure, numerous fundraising efforts were made, and Ms. Carolyn was a constant fixture. She helped cook many meals, supporting the barbecues and other events to raise funds, including for the $600 of landscaping plants, the creation of the memorial plaques and plantings, and the installation of exterior lighting and other elements. Carolyn not only cooked and sold the meals at these events, but personally invited so many to contribute and become part of the volunteer force that gradually brought about the miracle of the restoration and opening of the center.
When volunteer teams, such as the Bay Leaf Builders, contributed their expertise and labor to build a handicap ramp or rebuild the front porch, it was Ms. Carolyn and the rest of the Home Team who prepared delicious meals to nourish them. When the computer classes were begun, she reached out to others and invited them to take the classes with her, improving her existing skills and helping her classmates and supporting the instructor. Her fellow learners attest to her positive spirit and attitude, and credit her with assisting them in mastering the complexities of the subject matter.
Through every interaction, Ms. Carolyn was known for her kindness
and encouragement of others. As president of the Senior Choir of Love Grove Freewill Baptist Church, she exemplified servant leadership, also serving on the Usher Board. Friends and family recount many examples of her selfless giving.
She is survived by her children, Shenell Greene and Kendrick Greene, her grandchildren, Jo’Nathan McKoy, Antwan Jones, Tariq Ballinger and Kendrick Ballinger Greene Jr. She is also survived by seven sisters and four brothers, and a large extended family who loved her dearly.
A special tribute event will take place at the George Henry White Memorial center in November, to allow friends and family to celebrate the life of this outstanding supporter. We welcome your testimonials and comments to become a part of that event.
May she continue to bless us in her next life, as she has in this one.