Ernest Lee Carter

Ernie grew up a jokester, always coaxing a smile or laugh out of those around him. When in elementary school, his teacher would take time before class so he could stand up and tell jokes. He kept his humor into adulthood, always the life of the party, the entertainer.

After high school, he signed up to fight for our country and served three years in the Army. His father was in the military and so was his oldest son. Ernie was proud to be a veteran, and his experiences in the service aided in his comedic material, often telling humorous tales of his time in the Army.

Behind the jokes, however, was the heart of a poet. His children used to find random poems in boxes during moves; beautiful and wonderfully written. Ernie began writing poems for family members who’d passed away. They were heartfelt and worded so perfectly you’d giggle and then cry your eyes out. Just as he could pull a laugh from you he could just as easily pull a tear.

His love was strong and his heart was huge, from his big, strong hugs to his expressive blue eyes. He meant a lot to a lot of people just as a lot of people meant a lot to him. A son, a brother, a cousin, an uncle, a father, grandfather, and a friend; he was something to everyone who knew him. He was a man of many hats: a family man, a veteran, a provider, a way maker, and an avid baseball fan. His knowledge of the sport was vast and nothing put a smile on his face like talking baseball. His favorite team was the St. Louis Cardinals.

Ernie was always trying to help, even if nothing needed helping. He'd take strangers in as friends, and he had a lot of friends. He’d give you the shirt off his back as he told his son on several occasions, “Hell, son, ya want this one?” and began taking it off.

No matter the ups and downs throughout his life, he always had humor and family. He was always quick to crack a joke in dark times and keep smiles and laughter going. He’d stop by the houses of out-of-town family members just to see if they needed anything. He was always giving, always; up to the very end.

Ernest Lee Carter died peacefully in his sleep on August 21. In keeping with his giving nature, he wanted his body to mean more than worm food or shelf decoration, so he donated it. Private services will be held at a future date when his ashes are returned to the family. Somehow, a few ashes just might get blown onto the Cardinal’s home field at Busch Stadium.

He is survived by his sister, Wanda; four children, Jennifer, Patrick, Christopher, and Nikki; and eleven grandchildren, Noah, Julianna, Spencer, Miranda, Charlie, Paige, Ariel, Penny, Alexis, Samantha, and Jacob. A celebration for his life will be held on Sunday, September 2 at 1 pm at Lake Pavilion in Rothwell Park in Moberly, MO.