Ronald Carter

Ron Carter, a renowned jazz educator and musician, passed away on February 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and innovation. Born on July 5, 1953 near Naylor Georgia Ron dedicated his life to nurturing young talent and advancing the art of jazz. Throughout his distinguished career, Ron held various roles, including 17 years as the high school band director in East St. Louis, IL, and 23 years as the Director of Jazz Studies at Northern Illinois University. He also served as a clinician, artist, and author, contributing his expertise to institutions such as Essentially Ellington and Jazz at Lincoln Center. His impact extended beyond the classroom, as he served as an education consultant, including his three years as the Capel Distinguished Professor at Fayetteville State University. Throughout his illustrious career, Ron collaborated professionally with a stellar array of artists, including luminaries such as Wynton Marsalis, Clark Terry, Jimmy Heath, Lena Horne, Lou Rawls,  The Temptations, The Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, and many more esteemed musicians.

A visionary leader, Ron founded the South Shore Youth Jazz Ensemble and owned Carter's Jazz Clinics LLC, where he continued to inspire and mentor aspiring musicians. Among his many accomplishments, Carter received the Conn-Selmer Lifetime Achievement Award, The Jazz Institute of Chicago William Dyette Lifetime Achievement Award, The Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor, and a Milken Educator Award.

Ron was not just a teacher; he was a beacon of joy and love. His infectious smile, laughter, and warmth could brighten any room. He had a remarkable ability to make others smile and feel at ease, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Ron's life was not only marked by his immense contributions to jazz but also by his steadfast faith as a Christian and a faithful servant of the Lord. Ron was a devoted Deacon, musician, and cherished member of Elon First Baptist Church, where his faith and talents enriched the spiritual community. He exemplified the virtues of compassion, kindness, and love, reflecting the teachings of Jesus Christ in his everyday actions. Ron was known for his unwavering trust in God and his commitment to living a life guided by Christian principles. He found solace and strength in prayer, and his belief in the power of faith was evident in everything he did. Ron's legacy of love, grace, and humility serves as a testament to his unwavering devotion to his Christian faith. As we mourn his passing, we take comfort in knowing that Ron has been welcomed into the arms of his Heavenly Father, where he will experience eternal peace and joy. "Well done, good and faithful servant," are the words that undoubtedly echo in the halls of heaven as Ron's spirit finds its rest in the presence of God.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Linda of Burlington, NC, and his children, each cherished and deeply loved: Antwan Jamar Kelly of Jacksonville FL, Christopher Lee Brown-Carter (LaKesha) of Meridianville, AL, Bryan Alvin Carter of New York, NY, and Demetria Watson (Timothy) of Pittsboro, NC. He is also survived by his mother Arletha Carter of Naylor, GA, his siblings, who shared in his journey: Yolanda Carter of Albany, GA, Don Carter Jr. (Mable) of Huntsville, AL, Terry Carter (Minnie) of Naylor, GA, Doris Benjamin (Bobby) of Tampa, FL, Gary Carter (Lorraine) of Fort Worth, TX, and Lawrence Carter of Washington D.C., and mother-in-law Marian Davis of Fairview Heights, IL. Ron was preceded in death by his father the Rev. Don Carter, Sr., his brother James Carter, his son Jeremy Carter, and his father-in-law Alvin Davis of East St. Louis, IL. Ron's legacy also lives on through his adored grandchildren, who brought him immense joy: Antwan Jamar Kelly Jr., Akeno Jamar Kelly, Christopher Lee Brown-Carter Jr., and Nicholas Keshawn Brown-Carter. Ron leaves behind a rich tapestry of family, both blood-related and united by the spirit of swing. His legacy extends to a diverse community of individuals, all touched by his passion and wisdom, whether as musicians, collaborators, admirers, students, or family.

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