Edward Murray Carlton

He leaves his beloved wife of 43 years, Louise (Phillips) Carlton; his children, Pamela and her husband, Steve Adair, Cynthia and her husband, Greg Griffin, Kimberlee and her husband, Wayne Kemble, Lisa and her husband, Karl Greer, Mark Kull and Paul Kull; 10 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and many, many close friends.

Born in Union, New Jersey, the son of James Murray and Mary (Patrick) Carlton and the brother of Jane Carlton, he was raised in Fort Myers, Florida and was a long-time resident of Homestead, Florida. He and Louise retired to Estero, Florida in 1990.

Edward served in the United States Air Force from 1953-1954 as a student pilot.

He graduated from Florida Southern University in Lakeland, Florida and received a Master’s degree from Nova University. He was a career elementary school music teacher in Southeast Florida at Redlands Elementary, Avocado Elementary and Leisure City Elementary, among others. He was also a choir director at several area churches and sang in barbershop quartets.

His life’s work and passion revolved around music and his church, inspiring many in music careers and fellowship.

Upon retirement, Edward and his wife joined the Estero United Methodist Church, where they were long-time members.

He directed the choir there for many years, was a selfless volunteer at their Thrift Shop, provided ministry, and was a disciple in the Walk to Emmaus.

Edward’s love of his wife, family, church and music (and anything sweet) were unparalleled. He was also a diehard fan of the Miami Dolphins, the University of Miami Hurricanes and the Atlanta Braves.

He will be missed.

Arrangements under the direction of Babione-Kraeer Funeral Home, Boca Raton, FL.