Pastor Carroll Carter (Lansing)

Pastor Carroll Carter, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and servant of God, was born on September 8, 1950, in Caseyville, Mississippi, to Fred and Otis Bell McDaniel (Carter). His life was a powerful testament to faith, service, and love for other. Before entering the ministry, Pastor Carter worked diligently at the Road Commission of Lansing and as a driver for CATA, where his strong work ethic, kindness, and commitment to others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Called to ministry at the age of 21, Pastor Carter was ordained in 1971. He served under Pastor Porter at St. Matthew’s AME Church before becoming a co-founder of Solid Rock Full Gospel Baptist Church, alongside Overseer James E. Carter and Ed Clay, helping shape its vibrant ministry. He faithfully served as Senior Pastor of Prince of Peace Baptist Church in Lansing, Michigan for 24 years, until his retirement in 2023, where he made a lasting impact on the congregation and the community.

A gifted musician, Pastor Carter was skilled in piano, organ, guitar, and bass, blending gospel with funk music. He also served as Minister of Music at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, further enriching the music ministry in the Lansing area. Pastor Carter was a member of the Voices of Faith and Carter, Cooney & Wells, a group that signed with Birthright Records in the mid-to-late 1970s, alongside Edwin Hawkins & The Edwin Hawkins Singers. Notably, a young Marvin Sapp sang background vocals on their album Mighty Power. Pastor Carter’s contribution to gospel music earned him recognition, including Grammy nominee accolades, and his musical legacy continues to inspire.

In his pastoral role, Pastor Carter was known for his empathetic leadership and ability to inspire others. He was forward-thinking leader who understood the power of media to uplift and unite people, and his initiatives in this area included heading the media team ad running soundboards and camera operations. These efforts led to the Saturday night airings of The Prince of Peace Baptist Church services, showcasing his dedication to spreading the message of faith through innovative means. At home, Pastor Carter was just as dedicated, creating an environment that encouraged creativity, faith, and love. His knack for living life to the fullest inspired those around him to embrace their own gifts and passions. Whether through music, ministry, or personal interactions. Pastor Carter’s legacy is one of compassion, creativity, and commitment to a higher purpose, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Pastor Carter is survived by his loving wife, Ella Louise Carter; daughters, Alma (Fred) Carter Williams, Karen (Clark) Hartwell, Annie Smith, Melissa Carter, and Shijuana (Fred) Brodie; stepdaughter, Sharon Cooney; sons, Carl (Deborah) Carter and Ben Jointer; stepson, Danny Cooney; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, William (Laverne) Carter, Bennie McDaniel, Mary (Jeremiah) Bryant, Chauncey (Cassandra) McDaniel, and Felicia McDaniel; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Earnestine McDaniel, Roxy Sanders, Lizzie Green, Anniest Marie Guest; brothers, Fred Carter Jr., James E. Carter, Louis McDaniel, Leon McDaniel, Will McDaniel, Eugene McDaniel, Billie McDaniel; and daughter, Tina Harper.