Russell L Carter Obituary in Warren at WJSmith Funeral Home

In Our Care

Russell L Carter

02/07/1936 - 11/05/2022

Obituary For Russell L Carter

Russell L. Carter, born February 7, 1936 on Kickemuit Road, Warren, RI, passed away peacefully at home Saturday, November 5, 2022. Russell was educated at St Jean's School, LaSalle Academy, Providence College, and Rhode Island College. He was a longtime educator in the Portsmouth School Department and beloved principal of Melville Elementary School, as well as the Principal of Prudence Island School. A member of RI National Guard for 21 years, Russell went on to achieve the rank of CW2 Warrant Officer. An avid lobster fisherman, he enjoyed spending time on his boat, "Teacher's Pet". He also loved gardening and playing steel guitar. Russell especially enjoyed playing Bluegrass with his grandsons on the farm. He was the devoted husband of Phyllis, having shared 64 years of marriage together. In addition to his beloved wife, Phyllis, Russell is survived by his daughters, Patricia Pike and Elizabeth Patterson; his grandchildren, Charles and Christopher and his brother, Roger. Services are with Smith Funeral & Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Rd. Warren. Calling hours will be on Friday, November 11, 2022 from 9-10AM in St, Mary's Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10AM. Burial will be at St. Jean Baptiste Cemetery, Vernon Street, Warren RI. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to NEA Portsmouth, with "Scholarship Fund" in the memo, in care of Beth Travers, Portsmouth High School, 120 Education Lane, Portsmouth, RI, 02871. For tributes, please visit www.wjsmithfh.com

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

11/16/2022

Roger Trahan

Our sympathy from the Rhode Island Steel Guitar Association. Russell was a member and we always enjoyed seeing and hearing him at our meetings and events. He will truly be missed by all of us. A donation will be made to the Portsmouth High School scholarship fund in his memory.
11/12/2022

Barbara Saccucci

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Carter's passing, and I have such fond memories of him. I started substitute teaching at Melville after graduating from Rhode Island College in 1974. The love of learning and education that Mr. Carter instilled at Melville, made it difficult for me to seek assignments elsewhere. After a period of time, Mr. Carter took me aside one day and said "A permanent teaching position will not be coming available any time soon. You have opportunities in your family business, and I suggest that you pursue a career there". Mr. Carter will always be a part of my life story. Barbara Saccucci
11/11/2022

Kim

Dear Russell, Although we have never met ... I just want to say thank you so much for all your kindness, love and energy to this world. It reflects in Elizabeth. We are so grateful for your family. Xoxo
11/11/2022

Wendy Wotkyns

Uncle Russ, Thank You! My most special childhood memories were of you. I love you. Wendy
11/10/2022

Ellie and Jim Lawton

OUR THOUGHTS OF KNOWING RUSELL CARTER OVER THE LAST 50 YEARS HE WAS - - A GOOD MAN - GENTILE, KIND and CARING! - A DICACATED MAN - TO, THE LOVE OF HIS LIFE, PHYLLIS, HIS CHILDREN, HIS. GRANDCHILDREN, HIS BROTHERS, AND HIS STUDENTS and HIS PORTSMOUYH. TEACHERS! - A PROUD MAN - OF HIS HOME, HIS SERVICE TO HIS COUNTRY, HIS GARDENS, ESPECIALLY, THOSE AT "THE RIGHT OF WAY" AT PLATT ST! - A NEIGHBORLY MAN - ALWAYS TAKING TIME TO GREET FRIENDS PASSING BY. THE GATE AT 80 KING PHILIP AVE! AND ALWAYS "A MAN OF THE SEA!" OUR SALUTE TO YOU 'CAPTIAN OF THE SHIP'! !!!!SAIL ON!!!! WITH OUR LOVE, YOUR FRIENDS ELLIE and JIM LAWTON
11/09/2022

Pat Esteves

Russell was my neighbor for 44 years and wouldn't have it any other way. A man with integrity, honesty, funny and he would give you the shirt off his back. I will miss the visits to my house, seeing him digging in the water and sitting on the dock fishing. My husband and I have been blessed to have a friend like Russell. RIP my friend. We will miss you always!
11/09/2022

Jamie L Caromile

Mr. Carter, (as I always addressed him), was the first administrator who encouraged and applauded my work as a professional. This I will never forget. I want to send my most sincere thoughts of sympathy to the Carter family.
11/07/2022

Charlie Francis

I enjoyed those nine years with you in the National Guards RIP my friend. Charlie Francis