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Obituary For Harold Jay Carter
Los Angeles, CA - It is with heavy hearts yet with deep gratitude for a well-lived life that we publicly announce the passing of Harold Jay Carter, who entered eternal rest on June 22, 2025. Harold, affectionately known as "Mr. BB" to his beloved family, was the benefactor of a rich and multifaceted life that spanned creativity, leadership, and devotion to family and community.
A native of Youngstown, OH, Harold was born on May 12, 1953, to the union of Sarah Pearl Edwards Carter and James L. Carter. He leaves behind an enduring legacy of love and resilience that will resonate through the lives of those who knew him.
After graduating from South High, Harold furthered his education at Youngstown State University, where he became a founding brother of YSU's Omicron Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. He earned the distinguished title of Sphinxman #9, known as the "Black Genesis," marking his integral role in establishing this important brotherhood. Harold's adventurous spirit led him to travel to Africa, where he gathered meaningful artifacts that reflected his appreciation for his cultural heritage.
After graduation, he ventured west to California, where he enjoyed a successful career at the Mattel Toy Company. There, his artistic talents flourished through his work as a commercial artist. After Mattel, he enjoyed a fulfilling career with Konica Royal Copiers, where he contributed his talents in the arena of information technology.
His professional accomplishments were only eclipsed by the warmth and generosity he extended to everyone around him. His commitment to community service was evident in his role as Assistant Park Director at Falls Playground, where he helped enrich the lives of local youth and families.
Harold loved to chronicle events of all kinds through photography and videography. He was always present and celebrated life to the fullest. He was the de facto family historian and recordkeeper and was heavily invested in exploring the family tree. His passions included avid fishing and collecting Marvel and DC comic books.
Despite his California residence, he maintained strong ties to his Ohio roots, faithfully attending annual class reunions and making several trips home each year to visit his mother, whom he adored.
He is survived by his beloved siblings—Merriam Fields, James "Joe" Carter Jr., Emmanuel (Peggy) Carter, George Carter, Arthur Carter, Renwick "Pete" (Christine) Carter, Reginald Carter, Sarah Jane (Ralph) Harden and Mary Burke. He also leaves fond memories with his longtime companion Antoinette Bell and friends Rev. Gus Lawson and Jeffrey Gathwright. Harold’s cherished nieces and nephews also carries forward his spirit of kindness and commitment to family.
As Harold crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he was welcomed to the ancestral table of elders which included his beloved parents; siblings James Earl Carter and Twintella Turner; brother-in-law Rodney S. Fields Sr.; sister-in -law Quantrilla Carter, and former spouse Darlene Coward-Carter.
In moments of sorrow and reflection, let us remember that Harold's laughter, love, and unwavering spirit will forever remain within the hearts of those he touched. May his memory serve as a beacon of inspiration as we carry on his legacy of love, compassion, and service to one another.
As we celebrate Harold's remarkable journey, family and friends are invited to join in honoring his life. These gatherings will provide opportunities for reflection and remembrance, as we share celebrate the joy Harold brought into our lives.
The 11:00 AM public visitation will be held on Friday July 18, 2025, at Temple Emmanuel Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 108 West Indianola Ave., Youngtown during which time there will be an Omega Service conducted by the Men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
At noon, there will be a Christian Celebration of Harold’s Life and Rev. Gus Lawson, Associate Minister of New Bethel Baptist Church, will deliver the eulogy. After the committal ceremony, Harold will be laid to rest in the serene meadows of Belmont Park Cemetery continuing his connection to the community he cherished.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Harold Jay Carter elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.
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My condolences to the family of Harold Carter. I had the pleasure of meeting him in California and he was my friends Toni Bell number one guy. Harold had a heart of gold and always treated our family with the upmost respect and kindness. He will truly be missed. Don't worry Harold you rest well and we will make sure your love Toni Bell will be taken care of.
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Harold was a rare Brother that could see the good in people around him and bring out their best. He always had an uplifting and encouraging word, and was never one to criticize or complain. My wife and I cherished the moments we spent with him and Tonie over the years, and would have date nights at the County fair and other special events. He was a man of faith and integrity, who loved life, family, his fraternity, and his friends. His positive spirit and caring ways set a shining example of how people should treat each other. Actions speak louder than words, and his humble actions we should all strive to emulate. He will be very dearly missed.
See you in the ever after Harold. You will always be a part of the hood that was Parkwood Avenue. Your calm commitment will be missed at future SHS Class of '73 reunions. Peace now. My sincere condolences to your family.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
