Missionary Gladys Lee Potter Carter, 92, of Martinsville, Va, transitioned from Earth to Glory on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. She was born on October 4, 1933 in Franklin County, VA to the late Sandy Potter Sr. and Julia Potter. She was preceded in death by her husband Nathaniel W. Carter, Sr.; son, Nathaniel W, Carter, Jr.; brothers, Sandy Potter Jr. and John Potter.
Mother Gladys was a faithful and hardworking servant of God, whose life reflected the Christian values lovingly instilled in her by her parents. Purposeful and steadfast, she lived with a heart devoted to God’s work and to the well-being of others. A true missionary, she found joy in delivering food, comfort, and prayer to those in need – always guided by love and compassion. Mother Gladys deeply cherished her family, finding delight in gatherings, vacations, and the simple blessings of time spent together. Her radiant spirit, unwavering faith, and boundless generosity touched countless lives. Her legacy of faith, love, and service lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Mother Gladys was a graduate of Franklin County Training School in Rocky Mount, VA. She was employed by Standard Garments, CSI a subsidiary of Dupont, and after retirement, Wal-Mart as a door greeter. She joined Mt. Sinai Apostle Church after moving to Martinsville to live with family, after which, she met her loving husband and continued to work in the church ministry as President of the Sr. Missionary Department, head of the culinary staff, member of the usher board, member of Sunday school, and the Youth in Action culinary staff.
Left to cherish her memories are her children: Cynthia Brooks, Sandy T Carter (Kathy), and Sharon Echols (Sherman), all of Martinsville, VA; sisters: Sally Mahan of Martinsville, Va and Barbrah Jean Bleecker of Verona, NJ; four grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends.
A visitation service will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. with the funeral service at 12:00 noon at Mt. Sinai Apostle Church, 7 Peters St, Martinsville with Bishop J.C. Richardson, Jr., Eulogist. Interment will follow at True Vine Baptist Church Cemetery, 4025 True Vine Road, Union Hall, VA.
A public viewing will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Hairston Funeral Home between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. All other times the family will receive friends at the home of her son and daughter-in-law, Sandy and Kathy Carter, 507 Fifth Street, Martinsville, VA. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook,
Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.
Bernice B. Collins planted 5 trees in memory of Gladys Lee Potter Carter . - October 14, 2025
We extend our deepest condolences to the Carter family. Missionary Gladys Potter Carter surely will be missed, but never forgotten. She was a beautiful example of Grace and Faith, a true woman of God who touched so many. May the Lord comfort you during this difficult time. Rejoice in the knowledge that she now rest in the presence of her Savior, hearing the words "well done, Good and Faithful Servant". May her legacy of Love and Faith continue to shine through you. Mary Morris-Gibbons, Cora Hudson, Jennifer Jordan, Bernice Brown-Collins
To Sandy & Kathy and the entire Carter family. We extend our deepest condolences to the family during this time of bereavement. We're praying 🙏🏾 for you all. May the Lord continue to Bless you.
Linda Hampton & Family, Eden NC
Extending sincere condolences and prayers to Sharon Echols and family.
I met Mrs. Carter at Ferrum College when I was Sharon's roommate. Mrs. Carter quickly became Mother Carter to me as we spent time together. She always had a kind word and Godly wisdom to share with me along with transportation to and from college. I will never forget her kindness, patience, and love. Mother Carter was a blessing to me and I sincerely appreciate her family sharing her with me. I love you Cynthia, Sandy and Kathy, and Sharon(Roomie) and Sherman. May God forever bless you all.
A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to visit with Cousin Gladys. We laughed as she shared memories of vacations she and her husband spent with my mom and dad. She said to me. "Patricia, whenever it's time, I'm ready." She was a dedicated missionary and mother in Zion. I'm so thankful for the memories I have growing up with the Carter family. I'm praying for your strength as we honor a life well-lived!
My condolence during your time of bereavement.
Mother Gladys was a sweet Lady and she will be miss sending my condolences to her Son and her entire family's 💔😢🙏🏽
My condolences during this time of bereavement.
My prayers and Condolences to the Potter\ Carter families.
Our deepest sympathy to the Carter family. I met Mrs.Carter at the YMCA years ago and she was so precious. I will always cherish her memory. Willie Mae and Peter Harris
My prayer is with the family. A special jewel has gone home.
Our Condolences go out to the family during this difficult time. Praying for your strength.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.