Carolyn Annette Gillman

Carolyn Annette Gillman, a beloved servant of Christ and a gifted musician, peacefully entered into the presence of her Savior on December 24, 2024, at 6:00 PM. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Leo Gillman, two sons, Mark and Greg and wife Adele, three grandsons Sean, Daniel, and Ayden, and two beautiful granddaughters Shannon and Olivia. A devoted wife, loving mother, and faithful steward of the gifts God entrusted to her, Carolyn’s life was a melody of worship and ministry.

Born into a family rich in musical talent and deep faith, Carolyn’s passion for music and her love for the Lord were intertwined from an early age. She honed her craft at the University of South Florida, studying classical piano and voice, but her heart was profoundly shaped by the spirited hymns, camp-meeting songs of her Church of God roots, and her love for black gospel artists. This combination of technical excellence and spiritual depth marked her journey as an accomplished musician, singer/song writer, and worshiper.

Carolyn’s career was a testament to her dedication to glorifying God through music. Leo and Carolyn were founding-members of the Contemporary Christian singing group Revelation, where she served as a writer, arranger, vocalist, and keyboardist, contributing to the renowned album For His Glorious Majesty. Her song “And He’s Ever Interceding” became a cherished anthem, reaching #1 on the CCM charts for several months and touching countless lives. Her work was celebrated on the Bill Gaither Homecoming video This Is My Story, ensuring her legacy in the world of gospel music.

Her artistry was not limited to the stage. Carolyn’s performances, described as “wonderfully tasteful” by Contemporary Keyboard Magazine, reflected her sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and her grounding in God’s Word. From the subtle beauty of classical arrangements to the energy of jazz and gospel, her music resonated with audiences around the world.

Carolyn’s ministry extended far beyond the studio and stage. She carried the message of Christ through music to places like Poland, Norway, Germany, Sweden, Russia, Jamaica, Disney World, The 700 Club, and numerous churches, campuses, and festivals. Her life was a living testimony of Psalm 33:3: “Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.”

Carolyn’s family and friends remember her as a faithful woman of The Word and prayer, a source of encouragement, and a radiant reflection of God’s love. While her earthly voice is now silent, her music and her faith will continue to echo in the hearts of those she touched.

As she joins her family who have gone before – father and mother Raleigh and Doris Fletcher, brothers RJ and Harold, and sister Betty, we celebrate her life with gratitude, knowing she now stands before her Creator, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

She is survived by her loving husband, Hosea Leo Gillman; sons, Mark Gillman and Greg Gillman and wife Adele; grandsons, Sean, Daniel, and Ayden; and beautiful granddaughters, Shannon and Olivia.

A visitation will be on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Family Worship Center Church, 1350 E. Main Street, Lakeland, Florida 33801 followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Family Worship Center Building Fund with a memo " In memory of Carolyn Gillman".