Mary Lee Carter

Mary Lee Carter, a cherished daughter, devoted mother, and steadfast woman of faith, gracefully departed this life on July 12, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on August 8, 1942, in Kingstree, SC, she was the beloved daughter of the late Eugene and Katie Scott. Mary’s journey then led her to Baltimore, MD, where she completed her education in the Baltimore City School system and embarked on a fulfilling career as a talented cook. It was in Baltimore that she met and married the late Roosevelt Carter Sr., and together they were blessed with two precious children, Delano and Jean. After his passing, Mary found love once more with the love of her life, the late Thomas Bradford Jr., and their union brought forth another cherished daughter, Thomasene.

Mary possessed a vibrant and joyful spirit. She delighted in all styles of music, especially gospel music in her later years, and she also enjoyed dancing. She had a particular fondness for cookies, candy, potato chips, and anything sweet, as well as beautiful jewelry. She also found immense peace and joy in nature, particularly by the ocean or while watching ducks by the lake. Her deep commitment to her faith was evident in her many years of service at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Baltimore. There, she faithfully served on the usher board, contributed to the prayer ministry, and shared her musical gifts as a beloved choir member and director. Mary also dedicated a significant part of her professional life to the Royal Restaurant in downtown Baltimore, where she brightened the days of countless customers from all walks of life with her warm smile and kind words.

In her later years, Mary relocated, first to Arizona, where she loved to walk, talk about God, and lovingly care for her grandchildren and her late mother. From there, Mary settled in San Antonio, TX, with her daughter Tammy. Her unwavering faith remained a guiding force, and she poured her heart into Free Worship Deliverance Ministries. She was licensed as an Evangelist and diligently served as an Intercessor and Prayer Warrior, touching numerous lives with her profound devotion. Known affectionately by many names, including: Mama, Mamacita, Me-Ma, Ma, Mama Mary, Mary Carter, Granny, Grandma, Grandma Mary, Proud, and Mum, her presence brought comfort and love to all who knew her.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roosevelt Carter Sr.; the love of her life, Thomas Bradford Jr.; her son, Delano Roosevelt Carter Jr.; and her grandson, Devontae Carter.

She is lovingly remembered by her two daughters: Jean Carter Davis of Edgewood,MD, and Thomasene “Tammy” Bradford of San Antonio, TX. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Cherryl Carter of Glendale, AZ. Mary’s enduring legacy continues through her twelve grandchildren: Jevon Munsanto (Deidra), Delano Carter III (Kelly), Nashi Carter, Niana Hidalgo (Tony), Shania Boynton, Delondrae Carter, Dilya Carter, Amaziah Carter, Delijah Carter, Delaxandra Carter, Delaiah Carter, and Delana Carter. She is also survived by twelve adored great-grandchildren: Jesiah, Jaleel, Jett, Daniella, Deaven, Jaevon, Siena, Liliena, Antonio, Xavier, Preslee, and Naysa.

Throughout her life, Mary cherished her lifelong friendship with her best friend, Pat Jarret, and her cousin Shirley, both of Baltimore, MD. She also shared a special, daughter-like bond with Margurite “Lady” Durr of Denver, CO, and Cynthia McKnight of San Antonio, TX. Cynthia also lovingly provided care for many years and remained by Mary’s side until her peaceful passing.  Mary lived and loved Jesus Christ with every fiber of her being.

Her life was guided by her favorite sayings:
“God’s will must be done”
“Agape Love”
“I love you, but God loves you best”