Ms. Tracy Denise Carter

****NOTE: Service Times & Location Listed Below*** Tracy Denise Carter was born October 25, 1963 in Kalamazoo, Michigan. From a young age, Tracy was well-reserved and lovingly known as a bookworm amongst her family and peers. Tracy took a strong interest in academics and was very studious. She was also a natural-born planner. By age 8, she obtained her own bank account and started saving right away. Tracy was her father’s twin. She shared Leroy’s blunt demeanor and his tough as nails persona; also taking pride in being both logical and financially responsible. It was no surprise, for Tracy, priorities were paramount. Tracy was extremely intelligent, reliable, trustworthy, and the best confidant you could find. It is well known she preferred gaining knowledge above all else. When Tracy was not busy studying, she enjoyed social activities such as swimming, skating, hitting the highway in her car, spending time with loved ones, and believe it or not--- the occasional dance battle. Tracy Denise loved reading history books or romance novels and drinking Vernor’s ginger ale or hot green tea. She relished in a variety of different cultural experiences such as eating authentic Indian or Mexican food, speaking Spanish, and performing Latin dance. Tracy loved watching the Travel Channel and the Food Network. Whenever time permitted, Tracy liked being in the kitchen. She would put her culinary skills to the test, preparing flavorful dishes such as jambalaya, specialty nachos, a variety of appetizers, and even desserts. In 1985, Tracy became a mother for the first time. Strong-willed like her father, Tracy chose to deliver her own baby, refusing to wait until the physician entered back into the room. Tracy remained focused and career-driven her entire life. She would obtain an Associate of Science, graduate with highest honors, and become a member of Phi Theta Kappa while at Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC). Tracy also graduated from Grand Rapids Educational Center (GREC) after successfully completing the Medical Assistant program. She went on to acquire multiple Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science degrees from Western Michigan University (WMU) in Interdisciplinary Science and Holistic Health, graduating with highest honors in all areas of study. As a member of the National Honors Society, Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society, Sigma Alpha Lambda, and a recurring name on Western’s Dean’s List; Tracy was recruited by WMU to be a student ambassador. Tracy’s thirst for knowledge and accomplishment never ceased. She decided to become certified as an insurance agent. Tracy studied and passed the exam to get her license. Tracy worked for several medical facilities, including the Family Health Center, and was a Medical Assistant instructor at Ross Medical Educational Center. In addition, Tracy served at Christian Life Center (Stones Church) in the Children’s Ministry and the Medical Response Team. Tracy’s ultimate goal was to be a physician. She passed her Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and planned to further her education to become a holistic physician. This pursuit was derailed in December 2014 as she was diagnosed with stage 4, terminal cancer of the appendix. An inspiration to those around her, Tracy held steadfast, battling the c-word without restraint for as long as she could. Sadly, on May 7, 2019, Tracy transitioned peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her loved ones. Preceding Tracy in death are her grandparents: Looney and Maxie Weatherspoon, and Austin and Gwendolyn Garrison; Aunts: Ruthie Mae (Goodie) Williams and Beatrice (Beanie) Garrison; Uncles: George Garrison, Elmer Weatherspoon, Albert Weatherspoon, Joe Weatherspoon, and Charlie Weatherspoon; Sister-in-law: Liz Weatherspoon; and many other extended family members. Tracy Carter is survived today by her parents: Leroy (Loudy) and Margaret Weatherspoon; Siblings: Felicia (Jeffery) Townsend, Leroy Weatherspoon Jr, Jeanette (James) Mattox, Kevin Carter, and Michael Carter; Her loving children: Amber Scott, Jaren Scott, and Michael Leroy Carter; and her only grandchild: Adriel Francisco Zabala. Tracy is also held dearly by her lifelong friend: Gregory Scott; and special cousins: Sherry (Stan) Coffee-Ezell and Ajah (Justin) Gipson; along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ms. Tracy Denise Carter

October 25, 1963 - May 7, 2019