Passing of our Beloved Sister, Serenity Carlson

Our beloved sister, Serenity Rollag Carlson, has ascended to the spirit world on July 22 in North Dakota. Serenity was known for her bright spirit, and for working tirelessly for God and True Parents. She will be greatly missed by her loving family and many friends.

Let us support Serenity’s family during this special time and pray for her victorious transition to a glorious new life in the spiritual world.

Following is an obituary in memory of Serenity by Rev. Kevin Thompson.

Dr. Ki Hoon Kim Continental Director

Dr. Michael Balcomb President

The Victorious Life of Serenity Rollag Carlson July 22, 1926 - July 22, 2015

Natalie Serenity Rollag, also known as Maxine Carlson, was born on July 22, 1926 near Granville, North Dakota. She was adopted as an infant, and after half a century learned about her birth mother. Serenity married Edwin Carlson around 1952, and they raised three children in northern California, Paul, Elaine, and Marilyn. They separated, but later became friends again.

She attended the University of Minnesota, where author Saul Bellow was one of her professors. Later she earned a Masters in Psychology from John F Kennedy University. She began doctoral studies at Minot State University, where she was old enough to be some of her professor’s mother. Serenity worked as a school teacher, helped found three different schools, directed a Head Start program, and worked with Mexican migrant families in the 1960s.

In 1976, she became a missionary for the Unification Church. She was by far the oldest person ever to serve with its national fundraising teams. She directed and helped modernize the church’s national publications office in New York City, and later made two mission journeys to Zambia in southern Africa. Malaria did not stop her, and she always wanted to return there. She also traveled to attend church events in Korea.

In her later years, Serenity retired to North Dakota, where daughter Marilyn eventually became her caregiver. During this time they lived in Jamestown and then in Valley City, where they found a warm welcome by neighbors, and great support from social workers and others. They sometimes attended the Latter Day Saints’ services in Jamestown, and made many new friends there. Toward the end of her life, Serenity lived for several months at the Sheyenne Care Home, which she enjoyed, while becoming well known for her skill at Yahtzee and similar games.

Serenity passed away peacefully, on her birthday. She leaves behind three children, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, the youngest of whom is named after her. She has touched lives on three continents and beyond.

Seonghwa Information

The Seonghwa Ceremony was held in North Dakota on Saturday, July 25.