757.628.1000

James Robert Carter, Sr.


Sunrise: December 5, 1939

Sunset: December 20, 2023

Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of our loved one, but we know that all things work together for the good of them who love God. James R. Carter, Sr., 84, was called home to be with the Lord on Dec. 20, 2023.

He was born Dec. 5, 1939, in South Boston, Virginia to the late Jack and Everline Carter. His mother passed away at a young age, and he was raised by his late paternal grandmother, Mrs. Maggie Watkins.

After high school, James came to Norfolk, Virginia in 1957. Before becoming an entrepreneur, James held several jobs at Nolan’s Bakery, Giant Open Air Market, Food Fair (as an assistant manager) and shortshoremen.

After all of these jobs, James started his own businesses: 1400 Club Restaurant and Lounge, 29th Street Store, Merrimac Market, Casablanca Restaurant and Lounge, Roberts Park Market and Triple C’s Convenience Store. He ran these businesses while working 33 years at the Norfolk & Western Railroad Company, retiring in 2002.

James loved his family, the community and the Washington Commanders (formerly Washington Redskins). He helped thousands of people. He was full of love and wisdom. We could count on him for financial support, good food and advice. He was generous with his time and was father figure to many people in the Hampton Roads area and beyond.

Most of his good deeds were not publicized. He helped people out of the goodness of his heart. He did not do it for fanfare. He did it because he loved people.

As a few examples, he sponsored youth reading programs and youth and adult sports teams. Also, he was honored for his community service by Norfolk State University and other organizations.

James would want us to carry on his legacy by loving each other, helping each other, supporting each other – imperfectly, unconditionally and without judgment. That is how he lived his life, and these are the lessons he taught us.

Those who preceded James in death are his wife, Edith Carter; and his sons, Joseph Carter and James “Junior” Campbell.

Celebrating James as he transitions to heaven are his children: Kevin Carter (Linnie), Cheryl Carter, James Carter, Jr. (Carolyn), Gail Campbell, Georgia Carter, Sean Carter (Turkessa), Dwayne Carter and Wayne Carter. He is also survived by his sister, Mrs. Esther Charity. He is also being celebrated by his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and “framily” members.

Viewing Monday, January 1, 2024 2:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA 23505 Service COME IN PERSON OR WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Tuesday, January 2, 2024 11:00am Metropolitan Funeral Service Granby Chapel Interment Woodlawn Memorial Gardens 6329 E Virginia Beach Blvd. Norfolk, VA 23502

Send Flowers

Condolences(79)

  1. reply
    Brenda Brantley says

    With a heavy heart, I have to say “Rest Peacefully” to the most caring, kind-hearted man I have ever met. My condolences to the family. May you continue to be the angel that you are James Carter. You will forever be Loved and your presence will forever be Missed.

    • reply
      FLORINE A YAHANNASON says

      My prayers are truly with the family. A good hearted man gone too soon. May he rest in peace

    • reply
      Patrick L. Forbes says

      My Family, The Forbes, Holloman & Wilkins would like to give our deepest condolences to the Family of Mr. James Carter. May God give you the strength to move forward at such a difficult time! James Carter whom I affectionately called “Pops” was a very special, knowledgeable, & caring man. Over the years he was a mentor of life for me & a GREAT EXAMPLE of what a kind, spiritual man of God should be! We always talked about the love he had for his family & our community! Pops has ALWAYS been a giving & compassionate human being. He always had great words of wisdom & he always wanted to encourage you & bring out the best in everyone he knew! Pops, you’re definitely “The G.O.A.T & The Greatest that ever did it in this community for DECADES! Young, old & in between, will definitely miss you! To Gail, Dwayne & the rest of the Carter Family, I Pray for Comfort & Strength for you all at this difficult time! Rest Easy Pops!🙏🏽💙💪🏾💯✌🏽

      • reply
        Kema fulford says

        My deepest sympathy and condolences goes to your family in y’all time of need I hope God sends peace and people around you guys once this day past I pray that the calls in hugs keep coming in after this day in God’s name 🙏🏾 amen again my deepest sympathy and condolences for the family. Love you guys on behalf of the Fulford Family ( Enjohn (Clarice)

  2. reply
    Brenden Gardner says

    Trying to find words to express how I feel. When I moved into the neighborhood a block from your store. God allowed me to meet a great man when I walked into your store. I enjoyed each moment I shared with you. You treated my family and I like I was your family. My daughter love seeing you each time I brought her to the store. You would allow her to come around the counter for a hug,and candy. You was incredible man full of love,and wisdom, with great generosity. I know I will never meet another man such as you. You will without questions be missed by my family and I and the entire neighborhood. You was truly an angel on earth.

    • reply
      Meltonie Brooks says

      Greetings!!Family!!!

      My CONDOLENCES 🙏🏽 to the FAMILY, May GOD supply you with all your NEEDS in time of your BEREAVEMENT:
      PLSAM 34:18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in SPIRIT!! AMEN..

      LOVE AND PEACE FAMILY!!

      FROM : Rev Larry and Meltonie Brooks.

      • reply
        The Shoulders Family says

        Condolences, prayers and sympathy for the Carter Family. May God strengthen you all during this difficult time.

        • reply
          Kim Clark says

          To the Carter family. He was a great man, I was
          honored to known Mr Carter for 39 years. Mr Carter would help anyone that needed it. He never said no. I remember when I use to go to Casablanca to eat lunch. They had the best chicken and dumplings in Norfolk. He will be missed. Heaven got a very special angel. Will keep the family in prayer. God Bless the family.

          • Kettia L. Zieko says

            To the Carter family Mr. James was such a great man my little boy loves him so much every morning that he walks to school . He always give my little boy a juice and a hug. I also remember him from the merrimac market your father is the best ever known he will forever will remain within within all of our hearts may God keep you all in prayer may God bless the family.

      • reply
        Neka& Mark Perry says

        Sleep peacefully Mr.James Carter loved & known by plenty you will be missed. Helped so many of us for so many years Great man. To his family thanks for letting so many of us have him as family even though we didn’t share the same blood! He was a blessing & live a good life 🙏🏾 SENDING BLESSINGS 💐

      • reply
        Katina D Little says

        My Heart and Prayers are with The Carter Family.. He will truly be missed, I’m so happy to have crossed paths with him… He always put a smile on my face everytime I seen him ☺️ 💕

  3. reply
    Brenden Gardner says

    Trying to find words to express how I feel. When I moved into the neighborhood a block from your store. God allowed me to meet a great man when I walked into your store. I enjoyed each moment I shared with you. My daughter love seeing you each time I brought her to the store. You would allow her to come around the counter for a hug,and candy. You was incredible man full of love,and wisdom, with great generosity. I know I will never meet another man such as you. You will without questions be missed by my family and I and the entire neighborhood. You was truly an angel on earth.

  4. reply
    TC Gray says

    A very special man who will be missed by many.

  5. reply
    Wayne Bowers says

    RIP Mr. Carter
    We love you and
    You truly will be miss.

  6. reply
    Toya Lamb says

    As a young child, I would go to Merrimac Market almost every day after school to play Pac Man and Donkey Kong. I would see Mr. James and the rest of the family and they embraced me as their own. They called me Red and always made me feel at home. Although my heart is heavy, I’m so grateful to have been received by Mr. James, Gail, and the entire family with open arms. That store was my first experience of true community. Who knew a store would be my safe place. I love and miss him dearly. Family, you are in my heart and prayers.

    • reply
      Shawn Wilson says

      So sorry you are gone. You were an angel and a blessing. Rest peacefully. To the family I am so sorry for your loss.

  7. reply
    Tina DeMary says

    My condolences to the entire family! Mr Carter was like a father to me! He listen and loved me like his own daughter. I appreciated the wellness check in just to make sure I was doing okay! Offered me anything when I stopped pass the store. His eyes would light up when I surprised him at his home or store. I will never forget such a sweet, kind, loving, understanding man! I love you & will definitely miss you Love Tina DeMary 🙏🏾🥰

    • reply
      Shenita Howard says

      Norfolk’s pop. Rest in peace. Well done thy good and faithful servent. Sorry you had to go this way you didn’t deserve this. My condolences to the family and friends and to the whole Norfolk.

  8. reply
    DEBORAH HALL & CHARLENE says

    MR. CARTER WHILE HERE ON EARTH, YOU SHOULD US ALL HOW TO PAY IT FORWARD LONG BEFORE IT WAS COOL. WE WILL CONTINUE THE TO DO JUST THAT. THANK YOU KING FOR ALL YOU DID FOR ALL OF US. YOU WILL BE MISSED. WHAT A GREAT EXAMPLE OF COMMUNITY YOU LEFT US WITH.

  9. reply
    Anna FoyJamison says

    My CONDOLENCES
    TO THE FAMILY 🙏🙏🙏

  10. reply
    Gale Carney says

    This is so sad and it is continuing I’m so sorry my condolences goes out to his family and friends I just hope Justice is served and this has got to stop the family and friends are always in my thoughts and prayers

    • reply
      Tonya Wilson says

      My heart goes out to the family,praying for all ,We love you Mr.Carter and going to miss you ,Love Tonya and Stephon ❤️❤️

      • reply
        Donna Moss says

        My heart has a broken vessel in it.I Donna Moss grown-up learning about how this Man James Carter served us as people. I was raised in Liberty park by the late Horace Satterfield. And we had day when momey,food,money,, item where short.But my grandfather had established a friendly and business relationship with Mr. CARTER. AND THE TURST BEGAN. AFTER GRANDFATHER PASSED AWAY I ESTABLISHED MY OWN RELATIONSHIP AND HAD 3 KIDSMONEY SHORT,FOOD WAS NEEDED GUEST WHATTHAT IS WHEN HE WAS GOOD A GRACEFULLY ENOUGH TO TURST ME AND FEED MY FAMILY. LORD I THANK YOU.THEN WHEN MY FAMILY WANTED TO HAVE BIG EVENT.I WENT TO HIM AND HE ODERED FOR ME AND BOY ANYONE THAT KNOWS ME AND MY FAMILY. WHEN HAD ENOUGH FOR 2 OR THREE DAYS. GOD TOOK HIS ANGEL DOWN HERE HOME.HIS WINGS COVERED SO MANY,BUT IT WAS TIME TO REST WE WERE NOT EXSPCETING THIS.BUT WE HAVE NO CONTROL OF GOD TIME.AND EVEN THEN HE WAS USING HIS WINGS.TRYING TO PROTECT SOMEONE ELSE LIFE.LOVE YOU MR.CARTER.My family will never forget all you have done.FAMILY I WILL COUNTINUE TO PRAY FOR YOU ALL.

  11. reply
    Kim Bagley says

    My sincere condolences to the family. May God bring peace and comfort to your hearts.

    • reply
      Vera Jernigan says

      Sincere prayers and condolences to the family. I didn’t have the honor of knowing Mr. Carter (but I’m quite sure that my late brother knew him) but my late brother & me having been born & raised in Lindenwood this truly saddens my heart.

      • reply
        Anthony Ralph says

        A great man and a man’s man. Gone too soon. We will miss everything about you Mr Carter. Rest in OG🙏🙏🙏🕊️😞💯👊

  12. reply
    DIANE CLARK says

    DADDY AS I REFER TO HIM THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER WHO CAN FILL YOUR SHOES. SINCERELY, DIANE AND BANG

    • reply
      Tasha says

      You placed your arms around them and they could plainly see that all the love in your heart was there for them.

    • reply
      Mrs Bishop Dr.LordNajla S. Poole says

      I Missed you Very Much Son! I am sad you had to go and wish you back! Love You Always! Rest in ✌️

  13. reply
    Elaine Fennell says

    To the Carter Family: Sympathy & heartfelt condolences during the loss of one so dear to many who had the opportunity to know James as a true warrior and man of honor who cared for and welcomed so many people & made you feel like family whenever you were in his presence. May God comfort his entire Family & bring them peace.

    • reply
      Tasha says

      You placed your arms around them and they could plainly see that all the love in your heart was there for them.

    • reply
      Norfolk State University says

      Dear Carter Family,

      On behalf of Norfolk State University, we extend our deepest condolences for the loss of your beloved family member. We recognize and honor the immeasurable contributions and acts of service Mr. Carter provided to our community.

      His legacy at Norfolk State University will forever be remembered, and we share in the sorrow of his passing. May you find strength and solace during this difficult time, and please know that our thoughts are with you.

      With heartfelt sympathy,

      Norfolk State University

  14. reply
    Miriam Smith Melllanson says

    My sincere condolences to the Carter family. May GOD be with you during this difficult time.

    • reply
      Tasha Hooker says

      You placed your arms around them and they could plainly see that all the love in your heart was there for them.

  15. reply
    Daniel Ruffin says

    He was a nice and kind man. He did a lot for people. He was like a father to everybody. He helped anybody and was a lovely person with a good heart and will be forever missed.

  16. reply
    Rhonda Douglass says

    Sending My Condolences to the Carter Family Mr.Cater was Our Community Father.he help the Young and Old Even Me..God Knows We’ve lost a True Legend..Ripeace Mr.James Robert Carter Sr.
    Rhonda Dixon-Douglass

    • reply
      Dionne & Alvin S. says

      My Condolences to you and your family my prayers go out to the family. You were very kind hearted at all times to me. Even when I entered your store. You will be truly missed beyond measures. 😢 Such a sweet soul gone before his time. But know that God don’t make any mistakes when bringing his angels home through the gates of heaven. I know you will be watching over your family. Family keep your faith always and stay strong and know your angel is right there with you at all times!! 💔😭

  17. reply
    DDARCELINE Harris& Herberts says

    Wayne & family our deepest sympathies go out to you…
    Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal

  18. reply
    Janice says

    Sending my deepest condolences to the family. Praying for y’all strength. He will be truly missed.

  19. reply
    Deaconess Kimberly Davis, SCBC says

    Sleep in heavenly peace Sir James Carter 🌹

  20. reply
    Natasha Hooker says

    I pray that the love of God who has no limits enfolds you in this time of grief. Praying for you and your family.

  21. reply
    Petra Osborne says

    So sorry to hear. A great loss to your community. God has his hand on you. RIP Mr Carter!

  22. reply
    Does Jones(Burton, Edmonds) says

    My deepest condolences to his family. My he rest in paradise. A former resident of Liberty park Merrimack market was the nearest store. I have fond memories walking to the store with my childhood friends.

  23. reply
    The Chavis & Richardson Family says

    Our Sincere Condolences to the Carter Family. May God strengthen you all during this difficult time you are in our prayers.

  24. reply
    Vickie Taylor says

    My Deepest Sympathy To The Carter Family May God Give You Peace and Comfort For His Grace Is Sufficient Keeping You All In Prayer

  25. reply
    Deborah Taylor Mapp says

    To the Carter Family: James was unique person, chosen by God for all that he did and was. He was a good friend to my brother and we all grew up in Lamberts Point. WE had a special bond that no one could deny. When I last saw him in August, we talked, he hugged me and said that he loved our family. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal and I pray that God will strengthen each of you as only He can. May God heal your broken hearts and may God’s Peace be with you. Blessings and Love.

  26. reply
    Winkey's Family - J.R. says

    Mr. Carter, thank you for the inspiration over the years. You will remain a strong example of what a Black Businessman looks like in America, especially in Hampton Roads, Va. You and our father Winkey “The Hit Man” served the 7 Cities together and as independent entrepreneurs and made a mark that can’t be erased from history. On behalf of Winkey and his family to yours, we want to share our deepest condolences, love, and respect for a great man, Mr. James R. Carter! God Bless You!

  27. reply
    Wilhemenia Avant says

    In memory of my cousin James, I want to express how deeply I will miss him and how I will forever treasure the memories we shared during our childhood. James, you were not only my cousin but also my playmate, confidant, and partner in crime. Our adventures were countless and filled with innocent joy. We navigated the ups and downs of life together, always supporting and encouraging one another. Your infectious laughter and unwavering kindness brightened every room you entered. Though you may no longer be with us, the memories of our cherished moments will forever live in my heart. Rest In Peace, Dear Cousin James. “Mena”

  28. reply
    Lance Oubre says

    James touched so many lives in the very best way! I’m grateful I got the chance to know him as a colleague and a friend. I was saddened to hear of his passing. I wish comfort and peace to his family during this difficult time.

  29. reply
    Gloria Bostic, Pres. of the Lamberts Point Civic League says

    The Lamberts Point Community and Civic League sends our Sympathy to the Carter Family. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all. Praying for friends to comfort you. Faith to uphold you, and loving memories to carry you through. We the members of the Lamberts Point Civic League did not know that December the 19th at the Christmas party would be the last time we would see James Carter, Sr. alive. May God Bless you with comfort. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

  30. reply
    Judith Taylor Boatwright says

    My prayers and condolences to the entire family and friends during this difficult time.Mr.Carter will truly be missed but never forgotten.Know that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal 🙏🙏❤️

  31. reply
    Isiah and Carolyn Heyward says

    My Condolences to family Mr.Carter was a kind gentle Giant will be truly missed

  32. reply
    Isiah and Carolyn Heyward says

    My Condolences to family Mr.Carter was a kind gentle Giant will be truly missed 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿

  33. reply
    Sarada Gay says

    May you rest in peace and know that you are always being thought of and loved.

  34. reply
    Lisa Highter says

    My HEART ❤️ is deeply hurt 💔 my condolences to the Family of Mr.Carter R.I.P. MY PRAYERS 🙏🙏🙏 are with the Family My God give y’all the strength to see y’all though this LOVE THE HIGHTER FAMILY

  35. reply
    Margo Bullock says

    May the peace of GOD rest upon you all. Love ya

  36. reply
    Steven Michael Tanner says

    my name is Steven michael Tanner , a very dear Family member; I truly don’t know what to say. But Cuz tell everybody I said Hello , O.K

  37. reply
    Renee Ward says

    My deepest condolences go out to Mr. Carter’s family
    He was deeply loved, honored and respected, may he rest in peace🙏🏽

  38. reply
    Patricia says

    Prayers are with the family

  39. reply
    Tomicka Brown says

    Mr.Carter never met a stranger. He will Truly be missed by all that he ever encountered once. This was uncalled for and it hurts harder than a lot of other deaths 🙏🙏🙏condolences are definitely due for his family ❤️❤️❤️💯💯💯

  40. reply
    Delphine Simmons ( DeeDee) says

    Lord I’m overseas. And this is very hard on me. Me. Carter that I called Daddy has been with me since I was born. I’m very honored to have spent some of this thanksgiving with him. Cooking his dinner. To the family. Hold your head go go. Cause he was a good man. I’m still crying, cause I just can’t believe it.

  41. reply
    Sheba S Edwards says

    So sorry for the lost of your father grandfather friend he was a god sent to the community he always looked out for you had encouraging words to say he would truly be missed God has granted another angel

  42. reply
    Shykylla mcfadden says

    Sending love & peace . Rest up Mr carter I love you lots ! Lil bit (your wife )lol

  43. reply
    Violet Watford-Tabron says

    Mr.James Carter was a beloved Man in his community and in the City of Norfolk. He was a kind and generous soul who helped anyone who needed help. They don’t make men like Mr.Carter anymore and he will be missed by Everyone who’s life he touched. Condolences to his Family and his many loved ones and friends. “Well done my Son” said the Lord

  44. reply
    Tracy Beckford says

    My heart hurts, yet I rejoice because of the influential life and legacy of Mr. Carter.
    May his legacy of goodwill and community continue to flourish! I pray that strength and peace guide you through difficult days and joyous memories rest in your hearts always!

  45. reply
    Martina Anderson says

    Mr Carter you will truly be missed and forever loved. I know one day we will meet again and I pray you still have that infectious smile and generous heart.

  46. reply
    Latashia says

    I would to send my reguards and deepest Condolence to Mr. JAMES Carter Family & Friends . This has been a moment That has broke the hearts of so many us! Mr. JAMES CARTER will.Forever BE MISSED &LOVED For his Love & Kndness ,Hard work to keeping Our City of Norfolk COMMUNITY togather

  47. reply
    Linda D. Parker says

    The Carter Family,
    It is with a heavy heart to hear of the passing of your beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend Mr. James Carter. God made such a wonderful, loving and caring man. Family, and Carolyn, hold on to all the love, laughter’s and memories of Mr., Carter to sustain each of you for the days and nights ahead without him. Please continue the legacy of how he lived and loved life and caring for others. God’s Peace & Love I leave unto each of you each day.
    Williams Family of Roberts Park, Drake, Freddy, Annette, Linda

  48. reply
    Tiffany and Tiny says

    We send our deepest condolences to the Carter family. You are in our thoughts and prayers! Love Always, Tiffany and Tiny

  49. reply
    Juanita Cox says

    Cheryl, you and your Family have our Condolences 💐.
    ~Elder Bill & Minister Juanita Cox

  50. reply
    Celestine Keeling n Family says

    Rip Mr.Carter always looked out for ppl ..Didn’t know about that store ,but knew you from the other store .You helped alot of ppl ..God bless your family, prayers for comfort for them ..You will be missed 😢

  51. reply
    Estherine J. Harding says

    Deepest sympathy and prayers to the Carter family in the passing of your loved one. All praises be unto God for a life so well lived; may he rest in peace and his good deeds follow after him through family and friends.

    Estherine J. Harding, NSU retiree
    Life member, NSU Alumni – Chesapeake Chapter

  52. reply
    Lakiesha Miller says

    My sincerest condolences to the entire Carter family for the passing of Mr. Carter. Prayers for your strength and comfort during this time. Much love to my childhood friends Dwayne and Wayne Carter.

  53. reply
    Brenda F Jenkins says

    I have known Mr. Carter for a very long time, and attended some of his establishments. My heart and soul goes out to the family during this grievement. May he rest in peace ,and condolences to all the family

  54. reply
    Jeana Jordan says

    To the Carter Family, my deepest sympathies on behalf of me and my family. We all loved Carter dearly and my daughter Eboni and my grandson Corey were his hearts. He was always good to me and watched over my babies as they were his own whenever Eboni was with Carter, she would call me and say somebody wants to say hi and Carter would come on the line smiling and laughing and I would ask Carter what’s going on in Va with my babies lol and he would always say you know I got my eyes on em ain’t gone let nobody touch em!! we would laugh and talk and I knew he meant what he said. I love Carter as a dear friend, and he will always be close to my heart gone but not forgotten. HE WILL ALWAYS BE LOVED WANTED APPRECIATED AND MISSED!! God bless and keep you always family! Ms. Jeana Jordan

  55. reply
    Lamont D Thomas says

    I couldn’t get to the funeral today but just wanted to say that I love you Mr. Carter. Never thought I would have to say these words to him. You will be missed forever. I’m still in disbelief

  56. reply
    Wynter Wilks says

    Prayers for the family.

  57. reply
    Lamont Simmons says

    “My condolences”

  58. reply
    Denise B.Coleman McFarland Anthony. says

    MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE CARTER FAMILY…HE WAS TRULY A BLESSING TO SO MANY.. TO SPEAK HIS NAME ..NOTHING WAS SAID BUT GOOD THINGS AND MANY MEMORIES..THEY DONT MAKE THEM LIKE MR.CARTER ANYMORE..HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY ..RIP MR CARTER..

Leave a Reply

.

Personal Service, Peace of Mind, Pleasant Memories

P 757.628.1000 • F 757.545.9148

© Metropolitan Funeral Service