LT (Re't) Jesse Lee Carter Sr.

Obituary For LT (Re't) Jesse Lee Carter Sr.

Jesse Lee Carter Sr., a lifelong resident of Youngstown, Ohio, and a devoted servant to his community, peacefully passed away on March 28, 2026. He was born on December 13, 1929, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the late Armstead J. Carter and Hattie Emma Jones Carter.

Jesse received his education in the Youngstown City Schools and proudly graduated from The Rayen School in January of 1948. Shortly thereafter, he began his career with the Republic Steel Corporation, where his strong work ethic, dependability, and integrity quickly became hallmarks of his character.

In 1951, Jesse married the love of his life, Corey Mae Mosley. Their union was blessed with 61 years of marriage and the birth of two sons, Jesse Lee Carter Jr. and Phillip Carter, both raised in Youngstown, Ohio. Jesse was a devoted husband and father who placed family above all else and led with love, patience, and quiet strength.

In 1960, Jesse Carter Sr. made history as a true trailblazer, becoming the first Black firefighter hired by the City of Youngstown. He served proudly as the Administrative Assistant to the Youngstown Chief of Fire and in other various roles throughout his career with the Youngstown Fire Department, always giving his best to the city he loved. Jesse remained actively connected even after retirement. His love for the Youngstown Fire Department never faded—he deeply valued the bonds he shared with the men and women who continued to serve, protect, and care for the city. Jesse took great pride in being part of a close-knit community committed to keeping Youngstown safe.

A veteran of the United States Army, Jesse’s life was also marked by service beyond his profession. He honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict. He served many years in Freemasonry, serving as Past Grand Master, the Most Worshipful Benevolent Grand Lodge A. F. & A. Masons of Ohio. He was also recognized as “Master Mason of the Year.” His commitment to justice and equality was reflected through his involvement with the N.A.A.C.P., and his dedication to faith leadership extended through his service with the Mahoning and Shenango Valley Deacons Association, among many other civic and community organizations.

Above all else, Jesse was a man of deep faith and love. He was a devoted and active member of Third Baptist Church, where he served faithfully for many years. His service included election to the Board of Trustees, where he also served as church treasurer for 13 years. In 1986, Jesse was ordained to the Board of Deacons, a role he carried out with humility, wisdom, and unwavering dedication until his passing.

Most importantly, Jesse loved his family fiercely and was deeply dedicated to caring for those he loved. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved granddaughter, Brandy (Juwone) Harris; his special companion, Louise Adams, with whom he shared many beautiful years; his “Four Girls,” cousins Christine (Gary) Lynch, Shirley Anderson, Monifa Anderson, and Leslie (Randy) Stevens; his niece Phyllis Weeks; nephews and nieces Mark (Sebrena) Carter; Michele Carter; John (Soriyah) Carter Jr. ; Marie (Ronnie) Williams; godsons Thomas and Trenton Hight, Jerome Givens, whom he viewed as a son., and a host of relatives far and wide.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Corey Mae Carter; his sons Jesse Lee Carter Jr. and Phillip Carter; his brothers A.J. Carter and John (Jacquelyn) Carter Sr.; his sister Romelia Carter, and his niece whom he helped raised, Gloria J. Hight.

Deacon Jesse Lee Carter Sr. lived a life characterized by dedication, service, and love God and His people. Deacon Carter will be remembered as a pioneer, a leader, a man of faith, and a loving patriarch whose life was defined by service, sacrifice, and love. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he helped shape, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever revered.

As we honor Deacon Jesse's remarkable life, the members of the Carter Family invite the community to join them in remembrance and celebration of his legacy. A public viewing will be held at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave, in Youngstown on Thursday April 9, 2026, from 5:00 PM- 7:00 PM, with community tributes and presentations, including the Mahoning and Shenango Valley Deacons Association.

There will be an additional opportunity for public viewing on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Third Baptist Church, 1177 Parkhill Ave. from 9:00- 11:00 AM, concluding with a tribute presentation by the Benevolent Grand Lodge of Columbus, OH.

The Celebration of Life services, replete with military honors, will begin at 11:00 AM with Pastor Vince Peterson II officiating and Pastor Randy Stevens, Deacon Jesse’s nephew, as the eulogist. Following the committal ceremony, Deacon Jesse will be laid to rest beside his wife and among their sons, in the serene meadows of Tod Homestead Cemetery.

Deacon Jesse Lee Carter Sr. will be forever remembered for his unwavering spirit, contributions to his community, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Deacon Jesse Lee Carter Sr. 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.

Send flowers to the service of LT (Re't) Jesse Lee Carter Sr.

Download funeral program