Carolyn "Lyn" S. (Girtman) Kingsbury

Carolyn S. Kingsbury, affectionately known as Lyn, peacefully entered eternal rest on Saturday, October 21, 2023, in Otsego, Michigan with her loving husband by her side. Born on May 30, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, Lyn's life was an embodiment of faith, spirit, and passion, leaving an indelible mark on every life she touched.  She was the daughter of the late Charles and Carolyn (Fite) Girtman and the wife of Kenneth Jay Kingsbury.

Lyn is survived by her loving husband of almost 40 years, Kenneth Jay Kingsbury; her son, BJ (Tracey) Smith; her stepson, Wesley (Jerri) Kingsbury; her sister, Ann Cochran; and her sister-in-law, Sandra Girtman. The matriarch of a large and loving family, Lyn also leaves behind eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.  Along with her parents, Lyn was preceded in death by her brother, Chuck Girtman.

A proud graduate of Decatur High School in Decatur, Georgia, Lyn furthered her education by earning a two-year certificate from Reinhart College in Georgia that paved the way for her remarkable career. She made a name for herself as a purchasing manager for a door company, earning the unique distinction of being the only woman leader in the hollow metal doors and frames industry throughout the United States. Her expertise and dedication earned her the respect of contractors whom she would personally instruct on assembling doors. In 1969 she was listed in WHOS WHO for WOMEN IN AMERICA.

Lyn's professional accomplishments were matched only by her commitment to her community and her faith. She was a respected member of Custer Road United Methodist Church in Plano, Texas, where she led a prayer ministry for 12 years. Lyn’s ministry included breakfasts and daily prayer, providing a spiritual haven for many. She also organized a group called Seniors On Stage (SOS) that provided skits and entertainment for Seniors in Nursing Homes and Alzheimer’s units. Her devotion to service extended beyond the walls of the church as she volunteered to feed the homeless in Dallas, Texas for five years. Each day, they served 300 to 500 homeless people, with attendees affectionately referring to her as "Baby Girl."  More recently, she was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Allegan, Michigan, where she was a blessing to be around and continued to share her faith with all who knew her.

Those who knew Lyn were well-acquainted with her laughter, a gift she generously shared with everyone around her. Her joy was infectious, her spirit untiring. Lyn was a natural leader, inspiring others to stand with her and face challenges head-on. She had an unwavering faith, simple yet profound, that was a testament to her status as a true believer. Lyn's life was a testament to her faith-filled, spirited, and passionate nature.

Lyn's legacy extends beyond her family and career achievements. Her laughter, her leadership, and her faith have left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have known her. Her spirit and passionate commitment to her community are an inspiration for all. Carolyn S. Kingsbury will be remembered as a beacon of joy, faith, and service, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, November 5, 2023 at Immanuel Lutheran Church (631 Grand Street, Allegan, MI 49010), fellowship to follow the service.  A Celebration of Life will also be held in Texas at Custer Road United Methodist Church (6601 Custer Road, Plano, TX 75023, https://crumc.org/) on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11:00 AM, fellowship to follow the service. 

Lyn’s family would like to thank Hospice of Holland for their compassionate care during Lyn’s final days and for all those who sent cards, called or stopped by – you are truly appreciated. 

Memorial donations may be made in Lyn’s name to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 631 Grand Street, Allegan, MI 49010 or at  https://immanuellutheranallegan.org/ where you click on the donate tab and there is a place to designate it as part of the memorial fund.

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