JAMES FLOYD CARTER SR.

James Carter Sr. was born on September 20, 1933, in Sedalia, Missouri, to the late Fred Carter Sr. and Agnes Smith-Carter. The youngest of three children, James was a beloved brother to Fred Carter Jr. and Dorothy Carter. Throughout his life, he was affectionately known by many names: Papa, Dad, Jimmy, and Uncle Jimmy.

James received his education through the Sedalia school system and graduated from Hubbard High School in 1951. Following his graduation, James proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he was stationed in Alameda, California. It was during this time that he met his soulmate, Lemille Rankin. The two were married on May 20, 1956, and began building a beautiful life together. James embraced his role as a devoted husband and father. Lemille had two sons, Richard Moore Jr. and Gregory Moore, and together, she and James welcomed four additional children: Keith, James Jr., Charissa, and Michelle.

During his military service, the family had the opportunity to travel to many places around the world, including Suki Hana, Japan; Washington, D.C.; Adak, Alaska; Bainbridge, Maryland; and Kwajalein. He took great pride in his military career. After 20 years of honorable service, James retired from the Navy in 1972. He then served another 26 years as a firefighter- paramedic and security guard with General Dynamics in San Diego, California, where the family eventually settled.

His unwavering commitment to Lemille led to an exceptional 69-year marriage, strengthened by life's challenges and triumphs. Together, they built lasting memories and a love uniquely their own.

James was a reserved, family-oriented man who found joy in cooking and will be remembered for the creative meals he prepared. He was a loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan who enjoyed watching football with those he loved.

James was preceded in death by his stepson, Gregory Moore Sr.; his brother, Fred Carter Jr.; his sister, Dorothy Carter; his brother-in-law, Louis Rankin; and his parents, Agnes and Fred Carter Sr.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by his beloved wife, Lemille Carter; his children: Keith Carter, James Carter Jr. and wife Zina; Charissa Carter and partner Jamello Lewis; Michelle Blevins and husband Leonard; his stepson, Richard Moore Jr., and wife Moira; Grandchildren: Nicole Johnson and husband Craig, Andre Smith, Maisha Moore, Natalye Smith-Hines, Paris Blevins and wife Amber, Gregory Moore Jr., Kasey Carter and wife Keshlyn, Mikalyn Blevins, Kasja Moore, Kyle Carter niece Edna Lyons and husband John; nephew Steven Carter and wife Tangerine; Great-Grandchildren: Gregory Mason, Tyler Mason, Zinora Sheffield, Aniyah Tribble, Aria Moore, Uriyah Blevins, Jahnu Carter brother-in-law James Rankin; sisters-in-law Julia Rankin, Shirley Olivier, and Faye Rankin; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

James Carter Sr. will be remembered for his generous heart, steadfast character, and the deep love he had for his family. He will be deeply missed and forever honored.

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