Obituary of Cheryl M. Carter

CARTER, Cheryl Marie Age 71 of Elmira, NY. She was born in Elmira on November 1, 1948 and passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 after a brief illness at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center. She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Harrison A, Carter; children Shana (Chad) Carter of Canton, PA, Melissa Carter of Temecula, CA, Linnea Carter of Houston, TX; stepchildren Angela & Stephanie Carter of Springfield, MA and Harrison Carter, Jr. of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren Brianna & Victoria of Canton, PA, Destinie of Flint, MI, Fernando, Keyonna, Winter and Jasmine of Springfield, MA, Nakai of Rochester, NY, Devauyn and Nia of Springfield, MA, Marcus of TX, Emeritus, Darriuz, Dominic, Jaylen, Kobe, Jaida & Laila of TX, Trinten, Traymar, Ta'Jier. Trey'Von & Tyrese of TX; sister Sue Schmidt-Teets; special nieces, whom she loved dearly,Tracy Brown and Andrea Hayes. Cheryl's mother, Jean Schmidt, passed away the day after Cheryl. She was a dedicated employee of the Elmira City School for 30 years and touched the lives of hundreds of children that she came in contact with. She loved being outdoors; was an avid gardener and loved to mow lawns. Cheryl took great pride in her house and loved to decorate. She was truly the heart and soul of our family and will be greatly missed. Cheryl had three great strengths. She was passionate about the care of her beloved husband, Harrison, and her home. She was devoted to her daughters and grandchildren. She was committed to her job which she loved and excelled at. Cheryl served the Elmira City School District for decades. Her favorite placement was Beecher. As a full time aide, she was utilized in a number of ways, usually around discipline. Her methods of discipline worked. She was tough, compassionate, direct and loving. With the district's reorganization, Cheryl was transferred to Washington to Lynn Grottenthaler's kindergarten. They said it couldn't be done. Two big voices and personalities in one room. But it did work, because Cheryl loved and believed in what she did. She never lost her passion for the children and their progress. Cheryl impacted those around her in so many positive ways, children and adults. She was a magnificent friend, never losing sight of what needed to be said and done to encourage and care for those she loved. The children, family and friends flourished under Cheryl's very watchful eye and she did not hesitate to let you know where you needed to improve or change. Her Faith enabled Cheryl to be the best she could be and help others to do the same. She was bold and strong and confident and tough long before it was recognized as good traits for a woman. We have lost an extraordinary wife, mother, friend. She deserves her rest in peace. Family and friends are invited to her memorial service on Saturday, March 14th at 4 pm at Faith Temple Community C.O.G.I.C., Harper & Sullivan Sts., Elmira