- Date Of Birth: October 3, 1974
- Date Of Death: July 4, 2022
- State: Georgia
From one came the perfect two. Born to Carl and Selestine Davis on October 3, 1974, twins Shenita Carlest and Sherre Carleta were two unique souls united by birth. Renowned for shining her special light when helping others and showing them a way out of darkness, Carlest’s light was extinguished on July 4, 2022.
Carlest taught her friends and family many things. She always warned us of the dangers of ending your day or week without fried chicken, chocolate cake or playing the lottery. Most importantly, Carlest taught us how to use our hearts to the fullest. To know Carlest is to have laughed with or to have shared a kind word, whether a close friend or stranger. Being humbly social was a special gift upon which Carlest was bestowed; those around her were drawn to her infectious and ebullient personality. With innate compassion and a champion for empathy, Carlest used her natural energy to empower change, engage, and overcome obstacles and challenges with calm determination. With sheer joy of life and positive energy, she authentically sought to do what she could to help others. Her kindness was often as simple as a smile, a thank-you or a word of encouragement. It was her way of connecting, even if
only for a brief moment, with those she encountered every day. It will be hard to imagine holidays and events without her wit, humor, and fashion advice. The responsibility rests with us now to keep our lights shining brightly and keeping abreast of the latest trends as a reminder of her “cool” demeanor. Carlest discovered a passion for writing in grade school. Her parents knew early on that there was no keeping her from pursuing her dreams. She would go on to publish her first book in 3rd grade. She would further cultivate her passion by writing poetry, and recently beginning a blog and reality show about life as a Twin.
She was a graduate of Frederick Douglass High School, and employed by International Market Centers Atlanta, the Waffle House, AICA Medical Solutions Atlanta, PRIMERICA, the United States Post Office, and SunTrust Bank. Carlest’s only obligation in life was to be true to herself. She knew what mattered most – family!
A resilient figure in the face of adversity and with an unassuming and disarming smile that could put anyone at ease, Carlest’s days have been brief, but her life is a reminder of the value of God’s word, and the dependence on God’s strength and wisdom. She represented the good that we all need every day in our lives. She was one of a select few who could actually rise to meet challenges with a smile. Her healthy sense of self-confidence has inspired others to achieve and celebrate more. Her life lessons provide us the space to believe in ourselves and provide no boundaries to greatness and success. Her life reminds us to use our words for good.
With the words of our mouth, we can impart greatness or smallness in someone else’s life. Carlest’s life also reminds us that prayers are a priceless gift, a real treasure, an earnest heartfelt force of power. And, if you are fortunate to have others pray for you, you are indeed truly blessed. Carlest knew that when you’re open to trying new things, are helpful to others, aren’t held back by self-doubt or criticism, and wake with energy, you’re living the good life. She has earned the love of others because she has shown it to others. Her life was not measured by the number of breaths that she took, but by the amazing moments of her life that took her breath away.
But, given all the memories that we share, how do we move on when the unthinkable happens? How do we grieve with empty arms that long to touch and hug Carlest? How do we carry the burden that the future is so unpredictable? Searching for these answers and trying to find comfort amidst the pain are Carlest’s loving mother Selestine Davis (Carlest is preceded in death by her father Carl Davis), and her God mother Val-Valerie Arrington. Though these questions don’t yield answers but cast shadows of darkness within our hearts, Carlest’s eternal flame of love burns brightly in the hearts of her daughter Carli Barnes and husband Paul Barnes as well as stepdaughters, Anastasia, Yazmine, and Asha Barnes along with Carli’s bonus mom Carmen Barnes. Clinging to and sharing this
eternal flame of love are her siblings Sherre Carleta Davis-Jones, Elliott Lamar Thompson (Clarissa), Eric Carter Sr., Bernard Butler (preceded in death, Gwendolyn), and Seleta Carter-Drake (Kenneth).
Carlest has left loving footprints on the hearts of her aunts Marcella Jameson, Francine Ponder, Catherine Lenon (Carlton) Mary
Frances Thompson, Shirley Davis, and Clara Davis. Honoring and remembering her with love are uncles Melvin Davis, (Martha), Harold Davis (Georgette).
Memories fill the minds and hearts of many cousins, those most special Melissa Latonya, Marcus, extended relatives and friends those most special Walter, Carman, Michelle, Diara and Sharlene. The hardest goodbyes are the ones we don’t get to say. In an instant, the lights were put out. We couldn’t seem to find our way until – we remembered that the light of many memories of Carlest continue to shine within us. Carlests’ life was an unfinished story – you can complete the ending by continuing what she started – love fiercely and deeply, make a difference in someone’s life!
