Marilyn Carter

On Friday, March 17, 2023, Marilyn Ruth Adams Carter passed away from natural causes in her home at the age of 81. She was born October 26, 1941, in Ashland, Kansas to Wilmer and True (Hieronymus) Adams. She and her brother James enjoyed growing up on a farm and ranch north of Buffalo and attending the one-room Willard Grade School in the country and the much larger Buffalo High School in Buffalo, Oklahoma. After being charmed by humor and good looks during a weekend at Fort Supply Lake, Marilyn shortly fell in love with her husband Terry. They were married on May 17, 1959, and quickly became “Mama” and “Daddy” to six daughters.

Marilyn lived a life centered around her family and the farm. In partnership with her husband, they built a dairy operation. After selling the dairy, they focused on expanding their farming operation of wheat and cattle.

Her favorite moments were those she spent in the presence of her family. As her family grew and “spread out”, as she would say, she remained the constant hub in welcoming family whenever they could make the trip “home”. She always took care of those who were in her home by providing good meals and by creating an atmosphere of ease and acceptance. Once she fed you well, her favorite way to engage with her family was through a good hand of pitch or spades (card games). Marilyn was especially sharp at math, so you could always know that she was tracking cards to be the smartest at playing her own. When playing cards, she often became seriously competitive but simultaneously very light-hearted and a bit ornery.  

Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of a faith in Jesus Christ and love for family. She lived by conviction, gave sacrificially, and loved with all her heart. As the matriarch of her family, Marilyn will be greatly missed, more than she would have ever imagined. Her love for her family and for others has made an undeniable and forever imprint.  

Marilyn is survived by her husband Terry; her brother James and wife Marianne; and her six daughters and families: Debbie and Terry McGhee, parents of Jake and Lorene; Sandra Carter; Cheri and Kevin Norton, parents of Jeremy, Josh, Caleb, and Sarah; Keri and John Gardner, parents of Ashley, Hope, and Kathyrn; Kathy and John Quinby, parents of Isaac, Elijah, and Mary; Cindi Stefanovic, mother of Brianna. Nine great grandchildren: Andrew, Elise, Alexis, Evan, Carter, Adeste, Sophia, Travis, and Verity.

The family held a private graveside service on Sunday, March 19, 2023.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family suggest spending quality time with your family and friends.