Mildred E. Carter

Mildred, affectionately known as “Betty” or “Bet,” and lovingly called “Mimi” by her beloved great-grandsons, passed away on February 20, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia.

She was born on October 11, 1942, in Prince Edward County, Virginia. Mildred grew up during an era marked by racial segregation, a time when systemic discrimination and social barriers deeply affected opportunities for Black families in the South. Access to quality education was limited, and young children, especially in rural areas, often faced closed school doors and inadequate resources. As the eldest daughter, Mildred often took part in caring for her younger siblings, a role that nurtured her lifelong sense of responsibility, compassion, and devotion to family. Despite the hardships she faced, she developed a deep sense of perseverance, wisdom, and faith that guided her through every stage of life. She possessed a quiet strength born from facing challenges with dignity and grace, choosing love, kindness, and family as her greatest priorities.

Mildred found her greatest joy in caring for her family. She loved cooking, hosting family dinners, and spending time thrifting and shopping with her daughters. She enjoyed starting her days with a cup of coffee and relaxing in the afternoon with her favorite beverage, an ice-cold Pepsi; small, joyful rituals that brought her comfort and simple happiness. Even as she faced mobility challenges later in life, she continued to enjoy riding the city bus and visiting her favorite stores. Her independence and determination were constants throughout her life. Warm, friendly, and full of grace, Mildred made friends wherever she went; her kind smile and compassionate spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Martha Sprague and Hestor Scott Sr.; her beloved stepfather, Hezekiah Sprague; her husband, Ernest Lee Carter; her sons, Donell and Alexander Sprague, and Ernest Lee Carter Jr.; her grandson, Jaden Lee Carter; her sisters, Helen Sprague and Catherine Brown; and her brothers, Nathaniel and Melvin Sprague, and Hestor Scott.

Mildred leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Martha (Michael) Forrest, Sharon (Robert) Lundy, and Joyce (Steve) Paul; her sisters, Mable Word and Bettie Jean Cameron; her sisters-in-law, Rebecca Miller, Earlene Carter, Estelle Carter, and Barbara Carter; her brother-in-law, Willie “Donnie” Carter; nine grandchildren, including her devoted and cherished grandson Chrisean Roane, who provided care, laughter, and loving support throughout her illness; fourteen great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Mildred will be remembered for her deep love of family, steadfast faith, and the quiet strength with which she faced life’s challenges. To those who knew her, she was patient, kind, and protective. A guiding love whose presence will continue to shape all who were blessed to know her.