Ladon "Sylvia" Carter

Ladon “Sylvia” Carter died peacefully at home in Madison, TN on June 23, 2024. She had just turned 77 years old on June 21st. She was born in Chattanooga to parents Alfred N. Cantrell Sr. and Velvia L. (Webster) Cantrell. She had a rather nomadic childhood moving to and living in several states such as GA, VA, TN, MI and eventually made it to Pomona, CA in 1960. It was in Southern California where she met her future husband of 59 years, Ralph “Evan” Carter. She married Evan in February 1965 at 18 years old and in 3 months they moved east to Middle TN, where she has remained since.

Sylvia was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was most happy when hosting get-togethers and spending time with her family. She never met a stranger and would often strike up a conversation with whoever was lucky enough to be within earshot. She was a tremendous encouragement to everyone she knew, but she generously loved and encouraged her family. She was a talented flower gardener and always had a beautiful display at her home from spring to fall. She was a faithful follower of Christ. She was beautiful in every way and will be greatly missed. 

She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her loving husband Ralph “Evan” Carter; her sons Kenneth E. (Donna) Carter and Keith A. (Barbara) Carter; her brothers Alfred N. (Zelma) Cantrell Jr. and David A. (Debbie) Cantrell; her grandchildren K. Brooke (Kelsey) Murphy and Aiden C. Carter; her great-grandchildren Callum E. Murphy and Brigid A. Murphy. 

We love you Sylvia, Mom, Manner. Thank you for everything. We have a painful emptiness that we will try to fill with wonderful memories until we can see you again.

The immediate Family will remember her in a private celebration later. In lieu of flowers you can send a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, her 2nd favorite cause.