Senator Gómez Honors Legacy of Overseer Charlene Naylor on Senate Floor
Senator Adam Gómez (D-Springfield) and the Massachusetts State Senate today honored the life and legacy of Overseer Charlene M. Naylor, a beloved faith leader, mentor, entrepreneur, and community advocate, by adjourning the Senate in her memory following her passing on June 26 at the age of 70.
During remarks on the Senate floor, Senator Gómez reflected on Overseer Naylor's lifelong commitment to faith, family, and service, recognizing her decades of leadership at Holy Redeemer Cathedral and her lasting impact on generations of Springfield residents.
"Overseer Charlene Naylor devoted her life to lifting others up through faith, compassion, and unwavering service," said Senator Gómez. "Whether she was leading her congregation, mentoring women, opening her home to those in need, or building institutions that strengthened our community, she always placed people before position. Her legacy reaches far beyond the walls of the church—it lives on in every life she touched, every family she encouraged, and every person she inspired to serve with humility and love. Springfield is stronger because of her life, and her example will continue to guide our community for generations to come."
Born and raised in Springfield's Winchester Square neighborhood, Overseer Naylor dedicated nearly five decades to ministry after accepting Christ in 1977 alongside her husband, Archbishop Leonard Naylor, Sr. Together, they founded Holy Redeemer Church—now Holy Redeemer Cathedral—in 1987, beginning in the basement of their home and growing it into one of Springfield's most influential faith communities.
Throughout her ministry, Overseer Naylor served in numerous leadership roles, including choir director, Sunday School superintendent, counselor, trustee, fundraiser, and Overseer, always reminding those around her that "the goal was more important than the role." She earned an Associate Degree in Practical Theology before being ordained as an Evangelist and later appointed Overseer.
Beyond the church, Overseer Naylor founded the Deborah Transitional House, providing shelter and support to women and young mothers in crisis. She also established Charlene's Boutique, which became known not only as a business, but as a place of prayer, encouragement, and fellowship for women from across the country. Her leadership extended nationally through the National Fellowship Council of Churches, where she served as President of the Women's Department while holding several additional leadership positions.
Just days before her passing, Overseer Naylor was recognized as a 2026 Commonwealth Heroine at the Massachusetts State House and was named Abbess of The New England Province by The Holy Communion of Churches, honoring a lifetime devoted to ministry, mentorship, and community service.
In his Senate remarks, Senator Gómez described Overseer Naylor as "one of Springfield's finest," noting that her life was measured not by titles, but by her unwavering commitment to serving others. He concluded by asking his colleagues to join him in a moment of silence before the Senate adjourned in her memory.