Carol Ellen Leever

Carol Ellen Leever
10/1/1966 – 10/3/2023
Sacramento, CA
Carol Leever, a beloved sister, daughter, teacher, author, artist, and friend, has passed. After a courageous 6-year battle with cancer, she succumbed at the age of 57. Born in Albany, NY to Bob and Terry Leever, Carol and family moved to Fair Oaks, CA in her first year. She attended St. Mel’s Elementary, Mercy H.S., American River College, and Sacramento State University, where she received a Master’s in English. A true Renaissance woman, Carol earned a black belt in martial arts, excelled in competitive swimming, and was musically gifted in singing, guitar, and flute. For over two decades, she dedicated herself to the field of education, teaching Computer
Science at the collegiate level and shaping the minds of countless students. Perhaps best known as an author and fine artist, Carol co-wrote and illustrated eight published books in the Of Cats and Dragons fantasy series. The popular novels have achieved great acclaim in print and audio. Carol will live on through her brilliant creative contributions, and the tremendous impact she had on all those her life and work touched. Many former students expressed their gratitude for how she changed their lives and opened up new career opportunities for them, and she was well loved and respected by her colleagues. The love Carol put into her writing has been so movingly reciprocated by her innumerable and devoted fans, whose sentiments have included: “We will forever treasure her stories and are so thankful for the lovely talent that created these beloved books,” and that Carol’s work “touched our family in ways that you may never know. Of Cats and Dragons is regularly incorporated into our family lore.” Readers say they are “grateful…for the joy that the world Of Cats and Dragons brings,” and “thankful for the lovely talent that created these beloved books.” One remarked, “Carol’s words and pictures have brought such joyfulness to others,” while another was “touched by the talent, humor and
innate goodness.” Still another summed up Carol’s legacy with “Your best lives on in us.” While Carol never married, her heart overflowed with love for her family. She is survived by her adoring parents, siblings Teddy, Robert, and Christina, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and her cat, Kitsune. Carol’s best friend, Camilla, whom she met on friendship day in high school, remained forever at her side, was her co-author for her many novels, and became another sibling, daughter, and family member. Please join us in commemorating Carol’s life. A memorial Mass and Christian burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery, 7100 Verner Ave., Citrus Heights, on Monday, October 16 at 11 a.m.