Opal Dean Carter, a pillar of strength and love, passed away on May 20, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio, at the age of 94. Born on January 12, 1930, in Jefferson City, Missouri, to Samuel Homer Meachum and Oretha Meachum, Opal was the youngest of three children, with two brothers, Charles and Albert. Her journey began amidst the serene landscapes of her family’s farm in Tipton, Missouri. It was there that she cultivated a deep connection to nature and learned the values of hard work and perseverance.

In 1948, she embarked on a new chapter of her life at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, where she not only pursued her studies but also found love in the form of her devoted husband, James D. Carter. In 1950 she married James Carter and together, they ventured to Cleveland, Ohio where they began their life together and raised five children. Opal was a dedicated employee, working at Howard Johnsons as a cook and later at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in the food service and hospitality department for 25 years until her retirement. Prior to her move to Cleveland, Opal’s family owned a beloved BBQ restaurant in Missouri, where she learned the art of cooking and hospitality. Opal’s culinary skills and warm hospitality continued to shine throughout her life, as she delighted in preparing meals for her loved ones and ensuring everyone felt welcomed in her home.

Opal was a woman of many passions. She found joy in typing, coding, baking, and cooking for everyone around her, her culinary skills bringing warmth and happiness to those she loved. Her gentle spirit and kind heart brightened the lives of all who knew her. Opal’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family, ensuring they felt cherished and welcomed. Rooted in her Catholic faith, Opal found strength and comfort in her religious beliefs. She was an active member of her church community, where she volunteered her time and talents to singing in the choir or other various endeavors, Opal was always seeking a way to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Opal’s unwavering faith was a guiding light throughout her life, sustaining her through both joyful and challenging times. She instilled her values of compassion and generosity in her children and grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will be cherished for generations to come.

Preceding Opal in death are her parents, Samuel Homer Meachum and Oretha Meachum; her husband, James D. Carter; her brothers, Charles Meachum and Al Brent; her son, James Carter; her son-in-law her grandson, Jermaine Carter; greatgrandson, Jamal Clayton; and son-in-law, Clyde Banks Sr. who she held dear. Opal is survived by her children Carmen Banks, Karon Carter, William Carter, and Janice Carter, as well as her daughter-in-law Darlene Johnson. Additionally, she is survived by her grandchildren Jamie Margaret, Clyde Banks Jr., Joshua Carter, Kymeron Carter, Ashley Patterson, Demetrius Thomas, Brandon Carter, and Chas Mcknight, and her great-grandchildren Jermaine Readus, Keith Philpott, Armani Brown, Dayton Patterson, Dylan Patterson, Austin Carter, Thomas Ibrahim, Shya Robinson, Riczad Mcknight, Maliah Mcknight, and Chas Mcknight Jr.

Opal will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched with her love and kindness. Her legacy of compassion and generosity will continue to inspire others to live a life of service and love. Opal’s family and friends will forever cherish the memories they shared with her, from joyful celebrations to quiet moments of comfort. Her presence brought light and warmth to every gathering, and her absence will be keenly felt. Though she may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will remain a source of strength and comfort for all who were fortunate enough to know her.