Fred E Carter

Fred Carter, a beloved pillar of the Mabank community, passed away on April 10, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on May 23, 1944, to Eugene and Louise Carter, Fred lived a life defined by service, generosity, and an unwavering love for his family, friends and the people in the town he called home.

To know Fred was to love him. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought, always putting others before himself. His heart belonged to Mabank, and through decades of dedication, he gave his time, energy, and compassion to countless causes—many of them quietly, without ever seeking recognition.

Fred’s commitment to service was evident in every chapter of his life. He began his career in October 1964 when he joined the United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America as a Union Apprentice Carpenter. Through hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks, becoming an International Union Representative in 1979. In 1988, he was appointed as a Board Member/Vice President, a role he faithfully served in until his retirement in 2000. His career reflected his strong work ethic and commitment to both his craft and those he worked alongside.

He was also a devoted member of the Masonic Lodge for many years. Fred joined the Masonic Lodge in 1968, achieved the rank of Master Mason in 1969, and went on to serve as Worshipful Master in 1972. That same year, in July 1972, he became a Hella Shriner. His lifelong dedication to the fraternity was recognized in 2018 when he earned his 50 Year Lifetime Membership, a testament to his enduring commitment to brotherhood, service, and tradition.

He later devoted himself to public safety, serving as a volunteer firefighter for the Mabank Fire Department, where he was honored as Fireman of the Year in both 2014 and 2017. While serving with the department, Fred brought joy to the community’s youngest members by taking children who qualified through the reading program to school in the fire truck—often treating them to donuts along the way, creating memories those children would never forget. He continued his service with the Mabank Police Department as a Citizen on Patrol Captain, always watching over his community with care and pride.

Fred’s leadership extended throughout Mabank. He served as Board Chair for the Mabank Housing Authority from 2017 to 2025, working tirelessly to improve the lives of local residents. He was also an active member of the Historic Society of Kaufman County, helping preserve the stories and heritage of the area he loved so deeply.

His dedication did not go unnoticed. Fred was named Citizen of the Year in 2017 and received the Mary Helen Myrick Award in 2015—honors that reflected the profound impact he had on those around him. On May 23, 2025, the city recognized his lifelong contributions by proclaiming the day “Fred Carter Day,” a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much.

Fred believed in showing up—for his neighbors, his friends, and his community. Whether he was delivering meals through Meals on Wheels, participating in Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, or attending local events with camera in hand as the unofficial official photographer, Fred was always present, always engaged, and always giving.

Above all, Fred was a loving husband. He married his beloved wife, Mary Shumate, in 1961, and together they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and shared values. After a year apart, Fred was welcomed into Heaven by his loving wife, Mary, and they are now together again.

He leaves behind a cherished family: his devoted daughter, Freida Carter; his grandson, Jordan Chase and his wife, Briana; and his great-granddaughter, Penelope Grace. He is also survived by brother, Gary & Selida, son, John & Noreen, along with countless friends who became more than family through the years.

Fred Carter leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humility, and tireless service. His life was a testament to what it means to truly care for others and to go above and beyond for the good of a community. Mabank is better because of him, and his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Per Fred’s request, there will be no Memorial Service. However, those who wish may honor his memory by making a donation in his name to the Scottish Rite Hospital or to the Mabank Police Department. Fred’s wish was that no one be sad, but instead remember him with a smile and a mint, always saying, “Every Day Is Saturday.” Everyone is welcome to come by Mabank City Hall to receive a “Fred Mint” in his honor.

His Family extends a heartfelt Thank You to the Mabank Police and Fire Departments as well as so many Kaufman County & Mabank citizens for all the help they have given through the past several years. From simple phone calls to hands on support, they have been and will always remain a most important part of the Carter Family.

He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.