Born on April 13, 1941, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he lived a lifetime of love, service, and faith until his peaceful passing on Thursday, October 24, 2024. He was the fourth of eleven children born to George and Cora Denson.
Reverend Denson married the love of his life, Florence Williamson, on September 8, 1963, spending 61 years by each other’s side. He is survived by his wife, Florence, his son, Carl Jr., 6 daughters, Melissa (Ralph) Anderson, Colleen (Ayhan) Ulke, Melanie Denson, Bethann Denson, Sharon (Bobby) Rank, and Shanyn (Dan) Winnowski, 13 grandchildren, his siblings, Victor "Rudy" Denson, Carol "Dee Dee" Hayward, Celeste (Chris) Christian, Pamela Bosley, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Throughout his life, Reverend Denson was deeply committed to his community. He dedicated over 20 years to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, the Port Authority of Pittsburgh, and the Recorder of Deeds office of Allegheny County. In addition, he served as a Pennsylvania State Constable. Known for his compassion and generosity, Carl touched countless lives and left an impact that will continue to shape the Pittsburgh community for years to come.
In 1969, Reverend Denson accepted the Lord as his Savior, a decision that shaped the course of his life and the lives of his children and grandchildren. His steadfast devotion to Christ led him to earn both a master’s degree and a Doctorate from the Morris Cerullo School of Ministry. Understanding the importance of faith and trusting in Jesus, he made it a priority to raise his family with a strong spiritual foundation.
For 37 years, Reverend Denson served as the pastor of the First Baptist Church in St. Clairsville, Ohio. Alongside his ministry, he was a devoted father and cherished member of his community, serving on various boards and working tirelessly to support his family. His life was defined by love, integrity, and an enduring commitment to others, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate his life on Sunday, October 27, 2024, for viewings from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road in Brentwood. The funeral will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at South Hills Assembly Church located at 2725 Bethel Church in Bethel Park. Everyone please meet at church. Though he has departed from this life, Reverend Carl Denson's spirit will live on through the love, wisdom, and faith he instilled in those around him. His family finds peace in knowing he is now in the presence of the Lord.
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November 10, 2024
Bishop Alex Capers, Sr.
Hello Sister Florence and the Beautiful Denson Family, my heart aches greatly because of the passing of my Dear Friend and Brother Dr Carl Denson. We met at The International Seminary Commencement in Orlando, FL almost 20yrs ago and my joy was to fellowship with him annually. He spent a week with my wife Roneller and I in SC.. He was scheduled to Preach for us in October 2024, but had to cancel due to illness. I had a Family emergency and could not attend his Service. We talked and prayed together many times over the years! I really miss my Dear Kind Friend! I prayed with Melissa when he was Transitioning! God be with you Florence! He Really Loved you and The Family! He had high hopes for Carl, Jr. Rest my Brother!
October 29, 2024
Jill VanLandingham
Carl will be truly missed. As a man who shared Jesus and a smile with all he came in contact with. I will miss his smile and the great stories he always had to share with me.
October 28, 2024
RONALD DZIEZGOWSKI
My deepest condolences to the Denson Family. Carl Sr. was a dedicated civil servant with great wisdom and understanding but loved his family most of all. He was also a good friend, who touched many lives and will be sadly missed. I am thankful he is at peace and without pain. May the Lord comfort all of your sadness.
October 27, 2024
Russell E Regan
I knew Rev Denson from the time that we both worshipped @ Clark Memorial Church in Homestead. He was an amazing preacher. My prayers go out to his widow & family
October 27, 2024
Kelly Pettiford
Reverend Carl became my good friend and inspirational confidant.... He was in my corner and supported me in my weakest moment... I will always be blessed for knowing the true man of GOD and follower of JESUS CHRIST OUR SAVIOR... Lord please BLESS his soul and take care of his family In my heart and soul always Kelly Pettiford
October 27, 2024
Carl Denson Jr
My father was a great man awesome father and we share sports together hunting fishing riding to Ohio but he's going to get sick I love my dad and want to miss him but I know he's in heaven with his almighty father and Lord and savior Jesus Christ and with his mother and father his brothers his sisters his nephews and his uncles Don't worry the animation were Mom's okay in my six siblings he made me promise that to you before you left Earth Earth you have no more pain Dad I remember what I came to your room and sit there and read your scriptures to you and how she were you okay you would sit there and shake your head I'm okay you had that good mind only thing to let you down there with your heart and your kidneys but your mind was sharp also remember when I told you I was going to call the fishing lake and see what they were going to start trout and I told you October 22nd and we said we were going and I remember you raise your hands above your head winding that big trout in just wanted to say my father was well known all through the South hills and the Pittsburgh area didn't have to know you he would give you his last if you needed it well Carl Sr You're with your maker resting God rest in peace you'll be gone but not forgotten your son Carl Denson Jr
October 27, 2024
Shawn Bruce
Mr. Denson has always been a Wonderful friend of Our Family. He most recently made a positive impact in helping bring Me to Christ. He will be Dearly missed by all of Us.
October 27, 2024
Tom Tomkins
Carl will always be to me the nicest, most caring, loving and giving man I've ever known. A man of the highest honor and integrity, I worked with Carl for decades as a fellow Constable. He will be sadly missed by me and my son.
October 26, 2024
Dorothy H
I am so sorry for your loss, Pastor Denson was a man with so much wisdom and was willing to listen to you. He wii be missed. Dorothy H.
October 26, 2024
Gabriel Christian
One thing I'll say about my Uncle is Man did he love him some hard boiled eggs 😂remember as a kid him sitting there telling me stories then here go start adding salt and pepper just tearing them up 😂thanks for everything Unc You made sure the entire family was good no matter what the terms where on , thanks for everything Unc you'll be missed but never forgotten 🖤🕊️ -Gabe Christian
October 26, 2024
Rev Dr. Brenda J. Gregg
Condolence October 28, 2024 "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though dies, and whosoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25 (KJV) To Sis. Florence Denson, and the Denson Family. Rev. Brenda J. Gregg and the Destiny of Faith church family share in your sorrow and extend our deepest love and sympathy to you and your family due to the passing of your husband, father, brother, loved one, and friend, Rev. Carl E. Denson, Sr. Rev. Denson was an exceptional man. He was quiet but always willing and ready to serve anytime and anywhere. We stand with you in prayer during this time. God is close to us whose hearts are broken. We pray God will ease all your pain and sorrow. May we all remember the times we shared with Pastor Denson, the smiles, the long conversations about life and health, and everything under the sun, those things we hold dear to our hearts at times like these. It is good to know that there are no goodbyes, only a farewell. Prayerfully Submitted By the Destiny of Faith Church Family Rev. Dr. Brenda J. Gregg. Senior Pastor
October 26, 2024
Latoya Guy
Uncle Carl was a remarkable person and a man of faith whose life touched many. His unwavering belief and dedication to his family and faith served as an inspiration to all who knew him. As we reflect on his life, let us remember the kindness he showed, the wisdom he shared, and the love he spread to his family and within his community. May the family find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, embraced by divine love. Rest in Peace❤️
October 25, 2024
Jack and Lisa Cauley
Big Jack and I are so sorry to hear about Uncle Carl's passing! Thinking of you as we remember his remarkable life. Sending healing prayers, comforting hugs, and condolences to our family! Love always! 🥰😭 💯 🙏
October 25, 2024
Yvonne Krason
Carl Jr. and Family, Deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. I know there are no words to ease your pain. But may your happy memories and knowing that Rev. Carl is at home with our Lord bring you peace and comfort. Yvonne Krason
October 25, 2024
Celeste Christian
My brother was a very special person. He was truly a man of God.We would tease each other about being like our dad.Rest my brother I will miss you dearly. Love your sister Celeste
October 25, 2024
Alma Gilliam
Pastor Denson made a positive impact on the community. A very compassionate individual, you showed his love by serving others. Alma Gilliam
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