Melvin Ray Carter Sr.

Brother Melvin Ray Carter Sr. was born to the union of Lona Juanita Carter and Central Carter on October 12, 1926, in Caldwell County. Brother Melvin confessed his life to Christ at an early age. In his later years, he joined New Hope Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. O.T Arnold. He remained at New Hope until his health began to fail. Brother Melvin Sr. met and married Sister Ora Lee Houston on November 11, 1950. To this union, eight children were born. Brother Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ora Lee Carter; one brother, Pastor Marlin R. Carter; four sons, Melvin Ray Jr., Marlin, Curtis and Central Carter; two grandsons, one granddaughter, and one great-grandson. Brother Melvin attended school in Dell, Texas. After completion of school, he joined and served in the Navy for three years. He worked as a truck driver and retired form Cisco. Bro. Melvin was also a business owner for several years until he retired again. He enjoyed gardening, up-keeping the lawn, and fixing things around his home; he was a handyman. Brother Melvin leaves to cherish memories: his daughters Carla Ferguson, Terri Carter, and Vickie Carter-Randle (William); and one son, Carlos Carter; three daughters-in-law, Vernell Carter, Carolyn Carter, and Dean Carter; two sisters-in-law, Laveda Williams and Mary Carter; fifteen grandchildren, and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Dad had a special saying that he used to say, “God has been good to me,” and for that he was grateful. Visitation services will be on December 15, 2017 from 6pm to 8pm in the Mercer Memorial Chapel of Fuller-Sheffield, 2808 E MLK Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78702.  Funeral services will be on December 16, 2017, 12pm, at Greater Love Baptist Church, 6601 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723.