Kenneth Rene Michael Carter

Kenneth Rene Michael Carter, 74 years old, affectionately known as “Big Dad” after becoming a grandfather, departed this life on August 3, 2018. He was born on July 22, 1944, the fourth child of Richmond, Sr. and Kate Carter. He leaves to mourn, his loving wife of 53 years, Gwendolyn “Gigi” Carter; three daughters: Tara Hernandez, Karen Carter Peterson and Eileen Carter; three grandchildren: Jessica, Christopher and Aidan; two brothers: Noel and Nathan Carter Sr., and one sister, Sharon Carter Sheridan; a son-in-law, Dana Peterson, his nephew who was like a son, Thaddeus Young, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Richmond, Sr. and Catherine “Kate” Carter and siblings, Cynthia Carter George, Janice, Richmond Jr. and Kearny Carter and grandparents, Jasper and Isadora Carter and Gustave and Emily Thomas. He came from a hard-working family in the Calliope Housing Development in Central City to achieve many firsts in New Orleans politics, business and law. He attended Saint Monica Elementary School and distinguished himself early in life by earning academic scholarships to both Xavier Preparatory High School and Loyola University. He later graduated from the University of New Orleans and Loyola’s School of Law. Kenneth was a renowned attorney having begun his legal career at Herman, Herman and Katz Law Firm and later opened his own law firm, Carter and Cates. As a trailblazer he celebrated many firsts. He was one of the first five African-Americans to integrate Loyola University of New Orleans; the first elected African-American Assessor in the State of Louisiana, and the first African-American president of the Louisiana Trial Lawyers Association. Kenneth was a brilliant strategist, analytical to a fault, and, unbeknownst to many a closet comedian. He kept everyone laughing at family gatherings. Kenneth was a staunch advocate for education and believed that it was essential for future success. He was instrumental in the lives of many students by opening doors and making it possible for them to attend college and law school. When it came to helping those who were less fortunate, he was legendary. His heart was not only big, but soft. Kenneth was the “Rock” of his immediate and extended family due as much to his compassion and interpersonal skills as to his legal, mediation and political acumen. Many of the present and past elected officials in the New Orleans area were counseled by him as they embarked upon their political careers. He was the go to guy. He served as President of BOLD, Black Organization for Leadership and Development and as a board member and advocate for youth and families in Central City, with the Dryades Street YMCA. He was a leader in the historic, national Tobacco Litigation Settlement which successfully reformed the tobacco industry and redefined Multi-District Litigation. He often referenced a memorable quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy.” Kenneth was an avid golfer and a basketball aficionado. He was well-read, a snazzy dresser, and could charm the socks off you. He will truly be missed by all who loved him and received his sage counsel. A Memorial Mass is scheduled for Thursday, August 9 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in St. Francisville, LA, visitation beginning at 10:00 AM and Mass at 11:00 AM, Reverend Carey Bani officiating. A 9:00 AM Visitation and a High Noon Mass of Christian Burial will be held in New Orleans, LA at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church on Saturday, August 11, 2018. Interment: Mt Olivet Cemetery Arrangements by D. W. Rhodes Funeral Home, New Orleans, Louisiana. The family’s wish is that in lieu of flowers a contribution be made in Kenneth’s memory to his beloved high school alma mater, Saint Katharine Drexel Prep (formerly Xavier Prep) at https://drexelprep.com/donateskdp or by mail to Saint Katharine Drexel Prep 5116 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA