Ilester Carter

Ilester Carter, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle,

and friend, passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 67.

Born on April 15, 1957, in Tatum, Texas, he was the son of

Earlie and Nell Carter. Ilester grew up in a tight-knit family

and was deeply loved by everyone who crossed his path.

He attended Mayflower High School, which later integrated

to Tatum High School, where he completed his education.

Following high school, Ilester proudly served in the United

States Army for six years. He united in holy matrimony to

Zettie Mae Carter for 36 years.

Ilester was a devoted member of St. Paul Baptist Church,

where he embraced Christ as his Lord and Savior. He later

became a member of Greater New Bethel Worship Center in

Longview, Texas, under the leadership of Apostle James

Dancy until his passing.

He is survived by a dear friend, Tina Crosby, as well as his

children: Kendrick Carter (Tonya), LaKendrick Freeman,

Shard's Freeman, and Fa'drekia Freeman, all residing in

Longview, Texas, and Shantel Boyd and Jayla Coby who he

loved as his children, He leaves behind 10 grandchildren

and 5 great-grandchildren. Ilester is also survived by two

sisters, Linda Carter Tunstle and Willie Pryor from Dallas,

Texas, and six brothers: Earlie Carter Jr. (Patricia) of

Shreveport, Louisiana, Earl Carter (Bonnie) of Waxahachie,

Texas, James Carter (Mary), Howard Carter of Longview,

Texas, Kenneth Carter (Renee), and Thomas Carter from

Dallas, Texas, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and

other relatives and friends who held him dear.

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