Barbara Kay Carter

Barbara Kay Carter was born on March 31, 1960, in Buffalo, MN in the backseat of a car on the way to the hospital. She was born to Henry and Hester (Kuiper) Smith. Barbara grew up on a farm in rural Maple Lake, MN where she lived most of her life.

As a child, she attended school in Annandale, Minnesota. She was part of the graduating class of 1978. After graduation, she worked in Buffalo in a nursing home as a Nursing Assistant. She later worked as a medical receptionist in Plymouth while raising her kids.

Barb was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in the late 80’s. This is something that never held her back. She was passionate about the Word of God and attended Bible study classes over the years. She enjoyed baking and cooking. She loved all family gatherings, big or small.

In 2005, she met the love of her life, Donald Carter. Soon after they were joined in marriage on July 22, 2006.

Together they enjoyed many trips and events. They enjoyed watching TV and spending time together. She took multiple trips to Texas and Minnesota to visit family and friends.

Her personal relationship and faith in God, was the reason she always had a smile on her face. She had a tenacious spirit, strong-willed mindset, and never gave up hope. She worked hard to support her children as they grew up. She was a devoted wife and friend.

On April 29, 2025, at 8:31 am, she passed peacefully with her husband and loved ones by her side at their home in Shawnee, OK.

She is survived by her husband Don Carter; children Nicole (Jeremy) Pater, Joni (Robert) Kedrowski, Alyson Heath, Craig Heath, Shannon Carter, Nick (Angela) Carter, and Jon Carter; grandchildren Grace Pater, Conner Pater, Gina Kobylinski, Samantha Kedrowski, Maranda Kedrowski, Hendrix McClain, Emery McClain, Joclynn Newman, Madilynn Carter, and Harlan Carter; great-grandchild Estelle Kobylinski; siblings Herb (Jo) Smith, Vonn (Willie) VanDorp, Al (Beth) Smith, Jan (Bruce) Petz, Debbie (Gary) Halbert, Larry (Jodi) Smith, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She is proceeded in death by her parents Henry and Hester Smith.

The burial service will be held at Fort Gibson National Cemetery, Fort Gibson, Oklahoma on May 2nd at 11:00 am. Funeral service to be held at Immanuel Baptist Church in Shawnee, Oklahoma at 10:00 am, on May 3rd.

Live stream will be available at https://www.ibcshawnee.org/live for those who are not able to join us in person.