Tolbert H. Carter, Jr., a cherished educa - tor, devoted family man, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024, in Lansing, Michigan, at the age of 80. Born on February 16, 1944, in Kennett, Missouri.
After graduating from Pontiac Central High School, Tolbert’s passion for learning led him to Central Michi- gan University for his undergraduate studies.
He continued his educational journey by earning a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and an Education Specialist degree from Wayne State University. Tolbert’s commitment to educa- tion was not just a personal pursuit but a lifelong mission to uplift others. Tolbert’s professional life was marked by over three decades as a beloved Biology instructor at Clarkston High School. He had a unique talent for recognizing potential in every student, and dedicated himself to helping them find their path to success. His influence ex- tended beyond the classroom as he coached wres- tling, taught Drivers Education, and coached for the football team at Pontiac Catholic High School.
Tolbert’s dedication to his students and athletes was unwavering, and his legacy as a mentor and coach is remembered fondly by many. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tolbert was a man of many interests. He was an avid golfer, loved col- lecting and restoring Volkswagen’s, and enjoyed volunteering at Sparrow and St. Lawrence Hos- pitals. One of his greatest joys was the ability to travel all over Europe and the United States with his wife and grandchildren where they made ev- erlasting memories. Tolbert’s ability to connect with people was unparalleled; he could strike up a conversation with anyone, turning strangers into friends with his warm and engaging personality.
Tolbert’s life was rich with love and laughter, shared with his wife of 53 years, Jeanne (Reger) Carter. To- gether, they built a family that includes their two children, Todd Carter and Lisa (Keith) Gries, and two grandchildren, Olivia and Henson Gries. His role as a husband, father, and grandfather was one he cherished deeply, and the memories created with his family will be treasured forever.
He was preceded in death by his father, Tolbert H. Car- ter Sr., his mother Della (Scott) Carter, and four siblings Della (Lloyd) Mitchell, Lloyd (Peg) Carter, Doris (Rainey) Taulbee and James (Mary) Carter.
There will be a Celebration of Tolbert’s life with the details to be announced shortly. There will be a celebration of Tolbert’s life on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 PM at the Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel, 6301 W. St. Joe Highway, Lansing. In lieu of flowers, the family would encourage donations be made in Tolbert’s name to St. Jude’s Hospital or Make-A-Wish Foundation. These are two charities that touched his heart deeply. www.palmerbush.com