Willie J. Carter

"The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him."

A Pillar's Rest: "A pillar of strength has gone to rest, the finest mentor, truly blessed.

Though the house feels empty and the path is new, we honor the legacy left by you."

Willie James "Sonny" Carter, 82, of York, Pennsylvania, peacefully departed this earthly life after a brief and sudden illness on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at UPMC Harrisburg, PA.

Born on June 14, 1943, in Bamberg, South Carolina, to the late Deacon Wilbur Bowman Carter and Eartha Lee (Grant) Carter. Willie grew up surrounded by love and faith. He was baptized at an early age at Gethsemane Baptist Church in Bamberg, South Carolina, developing a lifelong devotion to the Lord. Though he was not an avid churchgoer, he knew and loved the lord. He enjoyed listening to gospel music, his favorite group, "The Mighty Clouds of Joy," which was often played on Sunday mornings.

Willie graduated from Richard Carroll High School, Bamberg, South Carolina, Class of 1962, and soon began his journey in Jacksonville, Florida, working as a construction worker on the beach. He moved to York, PA, later that same year.

In July 1965, Willie married the love of his life, the late Dorothy M. Bibbins. Their union spanned six decades, raising three children and welcoming a bonus daughter. He was profoundly devoted to his family, always putting their needs first and making sure everyone had everything they needed to thrive. His commitment created a warm, nurturing environment where love and care flourished.

Throughout his working career, he was hardworking, maintained extremely high standards, and demonstrated an exceptional work ethic. He was employed at York Hospital and Bowen McLaughlin for a time. He was later employed by Johnson Controls (Borg Warner–York International), from which he retired in 2005. Willie's passion for all things automotive began early-he drove the school bus in Bamberg at just 16, a love that grew as he worked for RabbitTransit from 1992 until his retirement in 2021. He was a proud member of Local UAW #1872 and the Odd Fellows Lodge.

Willie was a generous man, known for his gentle, reserved spirit and quick wit as a comedian among family and friends. Every grandchild, niece, and nephew had a special nickname. Although he was not a veteran, he had a heart for veterans, and he gave freely to the DAV (Disabled Americans Veterans) and was always willing to lend a helping hand-truly a man of high integrity who would give you the shirt off of his back. Willie enjoyed lively barbecues, holidays, family reunions, and celebrations, particularly the "annual summer fish fry." He was a gracious host, welcoming family from New York, South Carolina, and Connecticut. When not

working to provide for his family, he enjoyed relaxing at home watching Westerns (Andy Griffith, Gunsmoke, Bonanza), sitcoms (Steve Harvey, Sanford & Son, Meet the Browns), or BET movies.

He cherished traveling back to his hometown of Bamberg, South Carolina, where he could reconnect with his extended family and fondly reminisce about the "days of old." He delighted in sharing stories of growing up in Bamberg, with his favorite memories centered around "Clear Pond."

He was enthusiastic about politics and vintage cars. He could often be found tinkering in the garage on his treasured 1986 two-toned mauve and burgundy Mercury Cougar. He took pride in his home. His backyard was his haven, where he planted tomatoes and tended his garden. Willie brought joy every time he entered the room. You would always leave his presence with a smile.

Willie is survived by his daughters: India Y. Banks (Kelvin D. Banks) and Tabitha A. Carter, along with his "bonus daughter," DiShaya R. Kent of Atlanta, GA. He was a devoted grandfather to seven jewels: Kiara Y. Banks, Kelvin M. Banks, Alexus V. Roberts-Gibson, Sincer Carter, Qu'Asia L. Carter, and bonus" grandchildren Ahshynae C. N. Johnson and Ayahna C. Johnson, both of Atlanta, GA.

He also leaves to honor his memory a sister, Eula M. Ritter, and brother, Marion R. Carter (Shirley Ruth), both of York, PA; brothers-in-law Elliott Walker of Bamberg, SC, and Norman Bibbins of Winterville, North Carolina; a nephew, Willie Walker who was his namesake and right-hand man, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Willie was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy M. (Bibbins) Carter; his beloved son, Tarrence Dree Carter; a sister, Mary Louise Walker; a brother, Glen Carter; a sister-in-law, Velma Carter; and a very dear cousin, Leafos Grant.

Willie's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to family and friends. A man of stature and presence, a "good guy," a patriarch. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.