of Helena, AR
May 28, 1939 - October 20, 2023
Billy Gene Carter went to his heavenly home on October 20, 2023. Bill was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, May 28, 1939, the son of Leroy and Odessa Carter. He grew up in Leachville, Arkansas. Bill graduated college from the University of Arkansas where he became a member of Sigma Chi fraternity and become known as ''Billy Gene the Rock & Roll King.''
While joining his brother Jerry in Lambrook, Arkansas to help manage the Carter Gin Company after college, Bill met his life-long wife of 56 years, Sue Benson Carter. Together they lived and raised their two children Will and Courtney in Elaine and Helena, Arkansas where Bill managed his family's farm operations.
Bill loved his family and served his church family as a Deacon through the years in both First Baptist Church of Elaine and Helena, Arkansas. Bill enjoyed teaching Sunday school, supporting Gideons International and keeping up with his lifelong friends, particularly his Sigma Chi brothers and snow skiing and tennis buddies.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Odessa Carter, his brother, Jerry Carter, his wife, Sue Benson Carter, and his dearly loved son Will Carter.
Bill leaves behind his daughter and son-in-law, Courtney and Jared Zeiser of Hot Springs, Arkansas, grandson, Carter Zeiser of Hot Springs, granddaughter, Caroline Parkman (Delan) of Wheatley, Arkansas, his sister-in-law, Betty Carter (Little Rock), his nephews, Jerry Lee Carter (Little Rock) and Brent Carter (Heber Springs), and his niece, Teresa Murphy (Little Rock).
A graveside memorial service will be held at Sunset Cemetery, Helena, Arkansas on Wednesday, October 25th at 1:00 PM with a reception at the Helena Country Club to follow. Those who wish to remember Bill may make gifts in his memory to the Anchor Mission in Helena-West Helena, Arkansas, Hope Presbyterian Church PCA in Hot Springs, Arkansas, or Gideons International.
Services will be directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870)572-2571. Relatives and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/westhelena.
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18 Condolence(s)
Jack F. See, Jr.
Saturday, November 4, 2023
So very sorry to hear of my Sigma Chi friend's passing.
We were friends in those great 50's years at Fayetteville. At that time, my home was close by in Marianna. I considered Bill my "little brother" in Sigma Chi. May he rest in peace.
David Watkins
Friday, November 3, 2023
ALL HONOR TO HIS NAME! And, GOD bless his surviving family!
Daphne Burt
Friday, October 27, 2023
Courtney
So sorry for the loss of your Dad. Your family is in my prayers.
Eddie Welker
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Sad to hear about Billy Gene. We grew up together and we’re good friends all through high school. One of the finest men I knew.
Darryl B Waites
Wednesday, October 25, 2023
My condolences to you Courtney,Jared and family. I'm glad I got to know Mr.Bill and was very fond of him and your family. Now him,Miss Sue and Will are reunited. I know his missed them dearly. Wishing you all comfort in a difficult time.
Caren Mayer Orum
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
I’m so heartbroken for you, my Helena family! I loved Mr. Bill and Ms Sue so much and have such wonderful memories of being with them and Courtney. May his memory be a blessing. Sending tons of love. XO
Leslie Perkins Byrd
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
Courtney, I am so sad to hear about your precious dad. He and Mrs. Sue were always so special to me. I can’t imagine the grief you are going through. But please know that I am praying for the peace and comfort that only comes from the Holy Spirit to completely surround you and your family. I will continue to pray for y’all in the days ahead.
James & April Gill
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
May the comfort of Jesus Christ and the promise of our imminent reunion give you and your loved ones peace.
Missy Ishmael
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
Courtney, Jarrod and family,
Your Dad was a fine man. I always enjoyed visiting with him. I know he will be missed. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carol Ragsdale
Monday, October 23, 2023
Dearest Courtney and family, know that you are in my thoughts, heart and prayers. What a beautiful Godly Family your parents achieved. They left a guide for many to follow. Love, Carol Ragsdale
Ann Lee
Monday, October 23, 2023
Courtney
So sorry to learn of Bill’s death. Our prayers for you and Jared.
Bob and Ann Lee
Diane Mayer
Monday, October 23, 2023
My sweet Courtney and family— all the Mayer family is holding you in our hearts during this difficult time. I remember so many wonderful and fun times with your dear parents and you! Sending love and sympathy. Diane
Caren Orum
Monday, October 23, 2023
I’m so heartbroken for you, my Helena family! I loved Mr. Bill and Ms Sue so much and have such wonderful memories of being with them and Courtney. May his memory be a blessing. Sending tons of love
Doris and Clois Perkins Family
Monday, October 23, 2023
Courtney,
We are so sad for your loss. Bill was a great guy and always kind and friendly. We are praying for you.
Clois, Doris, Lisa, Leslie & Lester
Andrew Miles
Monday, October 23, 2023
Courtney, you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Most of my childhood memories involve your family.
Lynette (Burt) Murphy
Monday, October 23, 2023
Courtney,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Billy. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Love to each of you.
Marla mayer
Monday, October 23, 2023
Carter Family,
Sending love and condolences from all of our family to all of yours. We have so many wonderful memories together that will last forever. We love you all!
Marla
Jim mayer
Monday, October 23, 2023
Courtney you are in our thoughts and prayers. Your father was a friend and inspiration to all who knew him. Jim& Diane Mayer