Carolyn B. Gall

Carolyn B. “Lynn” Gall, age 85, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away on October 11, 2024. She was born on November 18, 1938 in Dawson, Georgia; daughter of Milton Davis "MD" and Nelle (Breedlove) Laing.

She graduated from Terrell Academy in Dawson, Georgia; class of 1956.  Carolyn continued her education at the Georgia State College for Women where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education.  She attended University of Wisconsin, working toward a master’s degree and later received her teaching certification for the State of Michigan from Eastern Michigan University.  A lifelong learner, Carolyn completed the rigorous Montessori certification as well as training for the Elementary Montessori curriculum.

Following in her mother’s footsteps of becoming a teacher, Carolyn founded Northville Montessori in 1976 in the old Main Street school building. After moving the classrooms around the area, they ultimately settled on Haggerty Road where they remained until 2015.  Her love of education and learning set an example within her own family with her son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter becoming teachers as well.  Her dedication to the students made for long workdays but the reward of their successes in learning made it all worthwhile.  Beloved by her fellow teachers and employees, she led the school and took on many roles including principle, administration, teacher and even custodian.  Miss Lynn, as she was known to her students, cultivated a family environment with students often staying for multiple years as well as generations of families returning to the school.  She served as Past President of Michigan Montessori Society and was instrumental in implementing the Montessori classroom into Benton Harbor Public Schools.

Carolyn was a member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church.  Active with the church, Carolyn served on the funeral luncheon committee and volunteered her time feeding the homeless at St. Leo’s in Detroit.  Carolyn loved traveling to vibrant cities like Las Vegas and New Orleans. Even on vacation, she was always thoughtful of others often passing out meals to those in need.  Carolyn enjoyed visiting theaters, exploring museums, and experiencing the excitement of helicopter rides. She had a green thumb, looking forward to the beauty of Spring and the flowers that bloomed in the warm weather. Carolyn was the most generous host, especially at Christmas; she prepared an amazing dinner, made delicious cookies and gave treasured gifts to family and friends. Above all, Carolyn adored spending time with her family and was a proud mother, dedicated partner, cherished grandma, and beloved teacher.  Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity touched many lives, and her impact will continue to be felt by those who knew her.

She is survived by her sons, Todd Gall, Greg (Kim) Gall, and Keith Gall; her partner of 40 years, Reginald Laramee; her bonus daughters, Regina (Chris) Towl, Stephanie Laramee, and Larisa Bolyard; and her grandchildren Milan (Chris Gaulin) Garcia, Ayana Garcia, Harrison Bolyard, Gunnar Gall, Greta Gall, Guinevere Gall, Melissa Gall, Megan Gall, Nicholas Towl, Haley Towl. and Austin Laramee.  She was preceded in death by her husband David Gall, her parents, and her brothers Bill Laing and Ed Laing.

The Visitation will be held Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a Scripture Service and Eulogy at 7:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.  The Funeral Mass will be held, Friday, October 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with gathering beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to ALS of Michigan , 24359 Northwestern Hwy, Ste. 100, Southfield, MI 48075.