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, 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 and raising six children together. His unwavering commitment to Lemille led to an exceptional 69-year marriage. Together, they built lasting memories and a love uniquely their own.
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. 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. James 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 passed away on August 9, 2025.
James was preceded in death by his stepson Gregory Moore Sr., brother Fred Carter Jr., sister Dorothy Carter, 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, children; Keith Carter, James Carter Jr. (Zina), Charissa Carter (Jamello Lewis), and Michelle Blevins (Leonard), bonus son Richard Moore Jr. (Moira), 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 1 brother-in-law, 3 sisters-in-law; Julia Rankin, Shirley Olivier, and Faye Rankin, niece Edna Lyons (John), nephew Steven Carter (Tangerine), 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.
(FULL OBITUARY AVAILABLE ON ANDERSON-RAGSDALE MORTUARY WEBSITE)