Gene Livingston

The daughter of West Goodrich Thompson and Grace Pitts Thompson, she was born in Charlotte, NC, November 6, 1922. She was married 38 years to George B. Livingston, Jr., retired Captain of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, who is at home with the Lord.

Anyone who saw her or met her was taken not only with her personal beauty, but also with her radiant, beautiful spirit. Although very tiny, she inspired others with her great strength of character, her integrity, and her faith. She also possessed a strong will that helped to carry her through these last months as she fought to recover from a traumatic injury.

Her home and family were most important in her life. She never got over losing George, but lived the last 32 years for the Lord, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter Cynthia Livingston Sikes and husband Walter; Amy Schweizer, her husband and their two children; Emily McPhaul and husband Wade, their sons, Andrew and Jacob; daughter Carolyn Livingston Turner and husband Richard; Christopher Turner; Jonathan Turner and his wife Aften, and their children Samantha and Ryan Turner.

She was a member of Central Church of God. Her love of the Lord and her faith in Him were a daily witness and testimony. She raised her children to know Jesus. She inspired her grandchildren by her unconditional love and faithfulness. She never once missed a school event in which they had a part, from preschool to college graduations. "Gram" was as much a natural part of their lives as their parents. She shared every holiday and family vacation, but her influence went well beyond her own home. She was a kindergarten Sunday school teacher for 20 years at a former church, teaching other people's little children about Jesus.

Her home was also a sanctuary. She had the gift of hospitality. Every day was a special day for her family. Every good thing would be found there - good things to eat, lots of family and friends, lots of laughter, everyone welcome. Her home was a taste of what Heaven will be, and this is where she is now.

The family would like to thank the ladies who were her caregivers these last months. They were not only caregivers, but became part of the family as they ministered to her.

Our mother was all most would hope to be. We will always be thankful to have shared her life. We will celebrate her at a service at Central Church of God, 5301 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC, on Saturday, June 8, at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 - 10:45 a.m. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Charlotte.