Judith Annette "Judie" McCarter

Mrs. Judith "Judie" Annette McCarter, age 83, a resident of Auburndale went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 surrounded by her family. Mrs. McCarter was born February 7, 1942, in Winter Haven, Florida to Elbert "Alfred" Merton and Emma "Roberta" (Wurster) Gilbert. She was a lifetime resident of Polk County, a homemaker and a graduate of Auburndale High School Class of 1960. Judie was a member of Westwood Missionary Baptist Church in Winter Haven and briefly worked for the Winter Haven Publix as a cashier and Modern Foods as a bookkeeper. She was an avid bowler, grew flowers especially roses, enjoyed photography, was a AHS band, NJROTC, and little league football supporter. Judie enjoyed cooking and going out to famous restaurants like Emeril's. She loved spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband of 55 years – Thomas "Allen" McCarter in 2021. Judie is survived by her loving & devoted family, son - Ronald Forrester of Auburndale, FL and 2 daughters – Melissa McCarter (Donald) Rice of Lake Alfred, FL. and Susan McCarter (Robert) Smart of Winter Haven, FL.; brother – Gayland "Gil" Gilbert of North Richland Hills, TX.; sister in law – Karen Herrington of North Richland Hills, TX.; 3 nieces – Wendy (Christopher) Cross, Tammy (Fred) Butz and Beth Pence; 6 gt. Nieces & nephews – Jacob, Jason, Joyce, Bryan, Samantha and F.J. Funeral services will be 11am Friday, May 9th at Kersey Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 10. Interment will follow at Auburndale Memorial Park.