Edward Carter: 1933-2011

Born in Richmond Virginia, Edward Carter landed in Besonhurst at the age of 2 years old, and went on to graduate with honors from the New York City public school system. He passed away on Sunday evening, Feb. 13, at the age of 77. 

Known for his many years of service in the Fort Greene community where he resided since the mid-1960s (after returning from active military service), Carter touched numerous lives leaving many fond memories and a legacy of activism.

He was a social justice legend, royalty throughout Brooklyn, and could be a royal pain sometimes — another reason why he’s so dearly loved.

Carter was involved with many civic, social, and fraternal organizations.

• He founded and served as executive director of the Fort Greene Youth Patrol, which was established in 1968 and served hundreds of inner city youth, young adults, and senior citizens.
• He was a founding board member of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and participated for over 20 years.
• He served as chairman of the Parks and Public Safety Committee for Community Board 2 for 20 years.
• He was co-founder and vice chairman of the Fort Greene Senior Citizens Council.
• He served as chairman of the Veterans Association’s Civic Affairs Committee.
• He founded Fort Greene Memorial Post 1908 of the American Legion;
• He was the founder and board chairman of the Wonderland Day Care Center.
• He was president of the Walt Whitman Tenants Association from 1968 to 1976.
• He was president of the Resident Advisory Council for New York City Public Housing in 1970.
• He was an executive board member of Cumberland Diagnostic & Treatment Center.
• He served 26 years on Selective Service Draft Board #145 in Brooklyn;
• He was vice president of the Black Cowboys for more than 15 years.

I will miss Mr. Carter’s words of wisdom, his sharp wit and big, gracious smile. This man lived a long, rich life and left a tremendous legacy. I’m certain that the community will always remember him.

The repast for Edward Carter will be at the Ingersoll Community Center on Myrtle Avenue near Prince St. following his internment at Calverton in Long Island on Feb. 25 at 10 a.m.