June 8th, 1958 — January 18th, 2026

A Life of Faith, Love and Eternal Hope with Encouragement for the Future Generations.

With hearts both heavy and hopeful, we announce the passing of our beloved Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother and Dearest Friend, who departed this earthly life on Sunday, January 18th at the age of 67 in De Soto, Missouri. While we grieve, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We offer a chance today to show you the love of Jesus Christ through the life of our loved one.

Born on June 8th, 1958 in Hannibal, Missouri Leslene was cherished by all who really knew her and those who knew of her. This blessed journey was marked by unwavering faith, steadfast love, and a servant’s heart. She embodied the teachings of Christ, always extending kindness, grace, and compassion to everyone she encountered. Her entire life was devoted to helping others and showing the love of Jesus Christ to everyone around.

Throughout her walk on earth, Leslene was known for commitment to family and the church, acts of service in Sunday school and children’s ministries. She was a Daughter, Sister, Military Spouse, CNA, Caregiver, Mother and Friend. She found joy in sharing the Good News and leading others to the light and truth of the Gospel at every base and place God put them to serve not only the Military, but God. Just as it is written in 2 Timothy 4:7, “She fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” We praise God that even with Dementia, he was still so clear and near to her heart until her very last breath on earth.

Leslene is survived by her Husband: Roger A Carver (De Soto), Daughter: JoAnna L Wiley and her children; Christian James Hipkins (Festus), Taylor May Wiley (De Soto), Mia M Mooney (De Soto), Son: Paul Thomas Carver (Winfield) and his wife Kimberly Renee Carver and their daughter, Katrina Arabella Carver. Her Sisters: Anne (Peter) Giacinto of Arkansas, Jenilyn (Michael) Gottemoller of Illinois and their children and grandchildren, and a Brother: Michael Gillum of Illinois. There are many more family members, we love you all.

Leslene is predeceased by Grandparents: Albert-Floyd & Bessie (Smith) Gillum / Augustus Willison & Alice (Marchand) Stowe. Her Father: Albert L Gillum (Rock Falls, Illinois), and Mother: Jane M (Willison) Gillum (Sterling, IL). She leaves behind a legacy of faith, hope, and love, which will continue to inspire her family, friends, and all who knew her.

As we gather to celebrate her life at a celebration of life service, may we honor her memory by seeking Jesus Christ with the same passion and dedication. Let us remember: 2 Corinthians 5:8 in the Amplified Bible reads: “Yes, we have confident and hopeful courage and are pleased rather to be away from home out of the body and be at home with the Lord.” This verse emphasizes a believer’s desire to be free from the earthly body to be in the immediate presence of Christ, driven by faith and a hopeful anticipation of being with the Lord.

May Leslene Marie Carver (Gillum) rest in the glorious peace of Christ, and may the next generation continue to walk boldly in faith, sharing Christ’s love and shining His light for all to see. May her life be a shining light for missions to seek Jesus for the lost souls in the dark of our next generation seeking for the light.

Hallelujah, Momma is dancing Home into the arms of Jesus!

Written with Love by her daughter and help from her family.