Will Charles Carter

Will Charles Carter’s journey began in Mayersville, Mississippi in Issaquena County on June 23, 1930. He was the third child of ten children born to the late Eddie F. Carter, Sr, and the late Kate Sias Carter. Early in his young life, his parents instilled the motivation for a spiritual life as well as a foundational education. He earned the nickname “Lemon” at an early age as he is affectionately known by his family. He attended elementary school in the Issaquena County School District. He enrolled in Rust College in Holly Springs Mississippi in 1950.

While at Rust College and at the advice of his late cousin Adell Wright, Will changed his life course. On June 26, 1951, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and fought in the Korean War. Will Charles received an honorable discharge on June 25, 1959. He received a Korean Service Medal with 2 Battle Stars and the United Nations Service Medal. On March 30, 2024, he was presented with the Quilt of Valor at his home for his service, sacrifice and valor during the Korean War.

While part of the Great Migration during the late 1950s, Will relocated to the south side of Chicago, Illinois where he met and fell in love with Gracie Phillips, another Great Migration Southerner from Arkansas. Affectionately called his “bride” they were married for 64 years until her death in April 2023. They were blessed with the births of their eldest daughter, Sharon Denise (Sharon Dee), and their baby daughter Stephanie Lynn. Yearly vacations were always planned as he enjoyed traveling with his family.

Will was employed as a postal clerk with the United States Post Office for 30 years. He began working at the downtown Chicago main branch and later at the South Chicago branch where he retired in 1987. He received a Recognition Award at the South Chicago Post Office Branch Station for 25 years of service.

Feeling a little nostalgic, Will and Gracie made the decision to relocate back to their beloved southern roots. In 1989, they moved to Little Rock, Arkansas. Feeling well rested and a little bored with retirement, he went to work as a cafeteria assistant at Watson Elementary School for 3 years. Serving and conversing with the students brought him so much joy! He loved it when the students would stop by to say hello and show him their grades. Will also enjoyed working as a driver at Enterprise Car Rental for many years. He met many people with whom he remained friends for years. Enterprise is where he met his adopted godson, Terrence Carter. Will was very busy in his community as well. He was a dedicated poll worker at his voting precinct as well as a member of the Pecan Lake Property Owners Association.

As a young child, Will professed faith in Jesus Christ. He was committed to God and his family. He was a devoted member of Park Manor Christian Church in Chicago, Illinois and served as a deacon for 30 years. Will and Gracie became dedicated members of Hunter United Methodist Church Little Rock, Arkansas since 1989. He served as a member of the United Methodist Men’s Unit. One of his many favorite missions was working with the United Methodist Men’s Annual Barbeque Fundraiser.

Will cherished his family far and near. He had many nieces and nephews that he adored. He especially loved to play cards, namely, Bid Whist, the official card game of the south side of Chicago with his brothers-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews. But no one can compare with his grandson Joshua, his running buddy, cook, partner, pride and joy.

One of his most favorite scriptures was “For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even until death.” Psalm 48:14 KJV. God called and he answered. Will departed this life on May 9, 2025.

He leaves to cherish his memory: two daughters, Sharon C. Johnson (Clint) of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Stephanie Carter of Dallas, Texas; sister, Dorothy Mae Carter of Chicago, Illinois; sister in law, Attorney Lula Brooks of Little Rock, Arkansas; brother-in-law, Frillie Phillips of Crocketts Bluff, Arkansas; sister-in-law, Bessie Phillips of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; devoted grandson, Joshua DeClinton Carter Johnson of Little Rock, Arkansas; godson, Terrence Carter (Arnella) of Benton, Arkansas; adopted granddaughter, Mrs. Tiffany Cooper; special family friend, Melvin Davidson of Dallas, Texas; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews and many loyal family and friends.

Acknowledgements

The Family of Will Charles Carter would like to take the time to acknowledge the love, support and compassion that you have shown us. We sincerely thank you for your prayers and comfort.

Many loving thanks to my most adored husband, Clint, for his prayerful, consistent and constant support for me and my family during our journey. He has been such a blessing to me!

Special Thanks

Hunter United Methodist Family, Highland Valley United Methodist Church, Veterans Administration Medical Team, Veterans Administration Medical Foster Home Program, Arkansas Urology Team and Arkansas Hospice.

Many special thanks to dad’s wonderful Pecan Lake neighbors, especially Mr. James and Sharon Burton. A heartfelt, most grateful thanks to our caregivers, Ms. Erma Ferguson, Ms. Donna Adams, Mr. Tyrone Harris and Ms. Miracle. Words cannot express our overwhelming gratitude for Mr. and Mrs. Earl and Evett Smith with their precious daughter Aubree for the care dad received in the last 5 months on this earth. Your family made such a sweet addition to his life.