Kennith Carter

Kennith “Ken” Carter was born in Pampa, Texas, to Don and Arlene Carter on February 24, 1949 and stepped into Heaven on July 27, 2026, at the age of 77. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior and reunited with loved ones who went before him.

Ken was raised in Skellytown, Texas, where he attended Elementary School and later graduated from White Deer High School. A gifted athlete, Ken attended Abilene Christian College on a full football scholarship until an injury in which he broke both ankles ended his playing career. Following the injury, he transferred during his sophomore year to Frank Phillips Jr. College.

Ken later attended and graduated from Wayland Baptist University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Physical Education. He continued his education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, where he earned a Master of Religious Education and a Master of Arts.

Following college, Ken served as a football coach in Littlefield, Texas, for five years. His love for athletics and young people remained an important part of his life for decades.

Ken faithfully served in ministry for more than five decades in churches across Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, including over 20 years at Southcrest Baptist Church in Lubbock.

During his ministry, Ken led groups on mission trips to Germany, Spain, and numerous states throughout the United States. He also led groups to Israel seven times.

Ken’s greatest earthly love was his wife, Patsy, followed closely by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. He treasured time with his family and took great pride in each of them.

Athletics also remained an important part of Ken’s life. He officiated high school football for 49 years, basketball for 42 years, and softball for 15 years. His love of sports kept him active and connected to communities across the region. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Ken is survived by his wife, Patsy; his children, Shane Carter and wife, Cassie, of San Antonio, Texas; Brandon Carter and wife, Sherri, of San Antonio, Texas; and Kendra Wiggins and husband, Frank, of Montgomery, Texas.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joshua Carter and wife, Maddie; Mekenna Carter; Ethan Wiggins; Sara Wiggins; Emma Pollock and husband, Carter Pollock; Christian Carter. Ella Carter; and his great-grandchild, Emmie Sue Carter.

Additional survivors include his brother, Donald Carter and wife, Reece, of Bowling Green, Kentucky; many beloved nephews and nieces; and a host of friends, church members, fellow ministers, coaches, officials, and others whose lives were touched by his friendship and ministry.

Ken was preceded in death by his father, Don Carter; his mother, Arlene Carter; and his son, Chris Carter. Ken leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, ministry, and service. His influence will continue through the family he loved, the churches he served, and the many people he encouraged throughout his life.

In place of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to the Southcrest Baptist Church