Carol Pearson

Carol Lynn Pearson, born December 1, 1939, is an American writer recognized for her poetry, screenplays, and plays. Her literary contributions frequently delve into themes of LGBT acceptance and the experiences of women within the Latter-day Saint community. Pearson, a fourth-generation Latter-day Saint, has often used her personal life and family experiences as inspiration for her writing. Her memoir, "Goodbye, I Love You," recounts her life with her former husband, Gerald, who was gay and later died of AIDS. This experience has positioned Pearson as an advocate for greater understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals within their families and the broader church. She also champions a more prominent leadership role for women in the church. Pearson has spoken nationally on these subjects, aiming to foster dialogue and build connections within the Mormon community. She has four children and four grandchildren, and her family's experiences, including the loss of a daughter and the career of a former son-in-law known for his work on coming out, have also influenced her public profile and writing.

Pearson's body of work is notably characterized by its exploration of sensitive and often deeply personal themes. A central focus throughout her writing is the intersection of faith, family, and identity, particularly concerning LGBT individuals and the women within the Latter-day Saint tradition. Her memoir, "Goodbye, I Love You," serves as a significant touchstone, detailing her complex relationship with her ex-husband and his journey of self-discovery, which ultimately led to his death from AIDS. This personal narrative has fueled her commitment to becoming an advocate for acceptance, encouraging Latter-day Saint families to embrace their gay members and supporting increased leadership opportunities for women within the church. Pearson views her position as an opportunity to create understanding and build bridges within the community she cherishes.

Born Carol Lynn Wright in Salt Lake City, Utah, Pearson was raised in a devout Latter-day Saint family. Her early life was marked by personal tragedy with the death of her mother from breast cancer when she was fifteen. She pursued higher education at Brigham Young University, where she studied music and theater, earning accolades for her acting. Her writing career began with poetry and essays, leading to her first published collection, "Beginnings," in 1969. During this period, she also worked in BYU's motion-picture department and had plays recognized in statewide contests, with one play, "Martyr-in-Waiting," published by the LDS Church's Mutual Improvement Association. Her marriage to actor Gerald Neils Pearson, a fellow devout Latter-day Saint, produced four children before their divorce in 1978, stemming from Gerald's struggle with his homosexuality.

“I love the Mormon community ... and I have a unique opportunity to build bridges.”