Wilma Jean Carter was born August 15, 1941 in Louisville, Kentucky. She was the only child born to Wilbur and Lillian Howell. Her parents, grandmother, one sister, and one brother preceded her in death. She entered her eternal rest on Tuesday, October 9, 2018.
Mother Wilma Carter’s confession of Christ occurred during her early youth in Louisville with the influence of her Aunt Bay, who raised her up in holiness, apostolic background. Mother often told the story of how her aunt took her to church services regularly and even as a child her family recognized her prophetic anointing gift and often stated “Jean has a veil on her eyes.” Meaning she was a seer and was already having dreams and visions.
Mother Wilma Carter and Bishop Leon Carter were united in holy matrimony on February 2, 1956. As a young couple they attended the Original Church of God, under the leadership of Pastor Ann Sadler, where they served as her armor bearers. In addition they worked with the youth, the choir, and several other ministries. They later joined Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Dawson. It was during this time that Mother Carter’s prophetic gift was getting stronger and both she and Bishop were led to begin their own ministry due to the fact women were not allowed to preach at this church and they were not allowed to preach in the pulpit.
Mother Wilma Carter had many occupations: Board of Education, Health Department, KY Children’s Home, Bag Plant, a Care-giver and a business Entrepreneur. She was of woman who wore many hats (literally) and she wore them well. Whether it be as the outstanding cook; home is where all of her family and friends would come for a good meal and she never turned anyone away if she thought they needed help. She enjoyed the art of shopping. Her form was that not only did she like to shop for herself but she also love to spend other people’s money and shop for them as well. She met no stranger and had a heart for people and enjoyed working with youth, from every background. Over the years she has opened up her arms and home to numerous of children. Her and Bishop served as some of the first foster parents in the state of Kentucky and were on the KY state board for foster care. She was well known for her decorating, her extravagant fashion shows, and being the Mistress of Ceremony around the city.
The highlight of the many hats that she wore was that Mother Wilma Carter was a true Woman of God, a faithful wife, a loving mother and a model First Lady. Mother Carter was a trail blazer and broke many barriers during her journey. She traveled all over the country preaching, prophesying, and casting out demons. She sang and was over many groups. Mother Carter was the last of the Golden Girls.
Mother Wilma Carter leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband Leon Carter, six children: Anthony (Stephanie), Kevin (Shannon - Former Spouse), Joyce, Tim, Mark (Kimberly), and Lisa; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, three sisters: Parnell (Keith) Dudley, Toni Powers and Barbara Jean Smith, and a host of family and friends. Our Memaw will be greatly missed.
