Samuel Carter Jr.

On August 19, 1942, in Merigold, Mississippi, Samuel “Sam” Carter Jr. was born the youngest of five children to Samuel and Adlener (Daniel) Carter. On March 1, 2026, he knocked on Heaven’s door. He had several family members eagerly awaiting his arrival including his father, Samuel Sr., mother Adlener, lovingly referred to as “Ma’Dear”, sister Terether “Tee” (Carter) Coleman, and brothers Nathaniel “Nate” and Elijah Carter. He was welcomed home with open arms.

At a young age, Sam’s family moved to Kansas City, Missouri where he grew up and ultimately built his life; including the birth of his two children, Jeffrey and Janet with Daisy Rosborough. He embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly and maintained an amicable relationship with Daisy.

In 1964, he was inducted into the United States Army where he served as a truck driver hauling critical supplies to soldiers in Vietnam. He received special honors as a sharp shooter. Once his tour was completed, Sam returned to Kansas City and made a natural transition to a career as an over-the-road truck driver.

Sam was a sharp dresser and loved his hats. In 1973, he married Corinne Finnell who referred to him as “tall, dark, and handsome”. He embraced her four children as his own. Although the marriage ended, friendship and family connection remained throughout the years. Sam left valuable lessons and lifelong impressions with every child who came under his responsibility. His children lovingly called him, “Pops”.

After being a truck driver for many years, Sam pursued his second profession, home repair, using skills he picked up from his older brother Nate. Eventually he partnered with his family friend, Frank, in a home repair business; keeping his hobby, auto repair, as his side hustle.

Bringing the scripture, “Laughter is good medicine” to life, Sam had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh, often making quips even on his sick bed. He was a member of Evangelistic Center of Hope International Church in Kansas City, KS where he attended until prohibited by his health.

Left to mourn his loss but celebrate his life are: His son Jeffrey T. (Denise) Carter and daughter Janet M. Carter; children he acquired though marriage who remained in his heart; sister Ida Bela Carter Griffin, sister-in-law Larnie D. Carter, 5 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and many friends. He will be loved and missed forever.