Janette Carter, 1923 - 2006

Janette Carter, daughter of A.P. and Sara Carter, passed away early Sunday morning, January 22, 2006, at the age of 82. Janette was one of three children born to A.P. and Sara Carter and was the last surviving off-spring of the original Carter Family (A.P., Sara, and Maybelle) [0]. She was preceded in death by her brother, Joe, sister Gladys, and son, Don; and is survived by her daughter, Rita, and her son, Dale.

Through her hard work, dedication, perseverance, and faith, Janette was an ambassador of the rich musical legacy of Southwest Virginia and the embodiment of the music and spirit of the Carter Family. For over thirty years, together with her family, she turned Maces Spring into a destination for residents and tourists alike, as every Saturday night visitors experience firsthand our region’s living musical traditions at the Carter Family Fold. Her personal example, willingness to assist others, and friendship has been a source of inspiration to numerous artists, individuals, and organizations in the region. Among the many awards and recognitions Janette received during her lifetime was the 2005 National Endowment for the Arts Bess Lomax Hawes award [1] in honor of her lifelong efforts in the preservation and performance of Appalachian music.

Her body will lie in state from 1 pm until 8 pm on Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at the Scott County Funeral Home, 280 Hwy 23N, Weber City, Virginia, and the family will arrive at 4 pm to meet visitors. Burial will be private and the public is asked to respect the family's privacy at this time. A public memorial service will take place at 2 pm on Sunday afternoon, January 29, 2006 at the Carter Family Fold at Hiltons, Virginia. Everyone wishing to attend those services is asked to arrive by 1:55 pm.

On behalf of the membership and board of directors of the Birthplace of Country Music Alliance, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the family and friends of Janette Carter.

For more information, please visit the Carter Family Fold website [2].

The following items appeared in the local media

Click here [3] to visit an online Guest Book for Janette Carter, courtesy of Bristol Herald Courier.

In tribute: Jeanette Carter 'Queen Mother' of the fold [4], courtesy of GoTriCities.com

Janette Carter Remembered [5], Bristol Herald Courier

Remembering Janette Carter [6], Bristol Herald Courier

A musical history worth preserving [7], Bristol Herlad Courier

J [8]anette Carter dies [9], Bristol Herald Courier