In Loving Memory

Kenneth Gregory Carter
June 7, 1952 — June 19, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Gregory Carter on June 19, 2026, at the age of 74. Kenneth passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief but courageous battle with liver cancer.
Born on June 7, 1952, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, Kenneth was the cherished son of the late Mary Rodgers Carter Strivers and Mitchell Carter Sr. He was the beloved brother of the late Brian, Romona, and Michelle Carter, and is survived by his siblings Mitchell Jr., Carl, Donald, Michael, and Marilyn.
Kenneth shared over 30 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Mary. Their love story began in 1984 in New Orleans, and after life took them apart, fate brought them back together in Los Angeles 15 years later. There, they built a life filled with joy, love, and happiness, raising their family with warmth and dedication. He was the proud father of Kian Carter and Christina Cameron Carter, and the beloved stepfather of the late Roy Carney IV. Kenneth's legacy lives on in his seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.
Kenneth's early life was marked by a passion for sports and athleticism. After his family moved from Louisiana to California, he continued to excel in various contact sports. An eye injury in junior college redirected his focus to track and field, where his speed became his hallmark. Kenneth attended Mount Sac Junior College, setting records and earning a full scholarship to Boise University, where he pursued his athletic career with fervor.
A proud veteran, Kenneth served in the United States Army from 1972 to 1976, spending three years stationed in South Korea. His exceptional martial arts skills earned him numerous accolades, and he was notably one of the first African Americans to grace the cover of Blackbelt Magazine in the late 1970s.
Kenneth's talents extended beyond the realm of sports. He was a visionary in the field of computer science, teaching and repairing computers during the late 1990s. His ingenuity and skill in this field were matched only by his passion for sharing his knowledge with others.
Kenneth's life was a testament to the power of resilience, love, and determination. His many hidden talents, coupled with his boundless enthusiasm for life, left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose memory will be treasured by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kenneth's memory to a charity of your choice, honoring his commitment to giving back and making a positive impact in the world.
As we celebrate the life of Kenneth Gregory Carter, we remember a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left a legacy of kindness and strength. May his soul rest in eternal peace.