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Edna Mertha (Ellis) Carter was born the eldest of a twin birth to Ernie Mac Ellis and Euna V. Ray on March 13, 1936. Mertha went to her heavenly home on March 5, 2023, after a lifelong service to Christ.

She died peacefully, at home, and surrounded by loved ones. At the time of her death, she was 86 years old. Mertha was born to a farming family in Sanford, Alabama, and grew up to become a successful businesswoman in her own right, alongside her lifelong companion James Edward Carter.

Mertha was preceded in death by her father and mother, Ernie Mac Ellis and Euna V. Ray Ellis; her twin brother; and dear friend Mervin Ellis. Mertha is survived by her three sons: Cody (Judy), Hank (Sue), and Shane; eight grandchildren: Dr. Brandy Truelove, Austin (Ashley) Carter, Krystal (Brandon) Johnson, Anthony Carter, Asia (Michael) Dutton, Hannah (Tyler) Holloway, Tiarra Carter, Mikie Carter, Angel (Klint) Short, and Ari Carter, and 15 great-grandchildren.

Mertha was an extremely hard-working and generous woman who served Christ faithfully all of her life. She was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. She was extremely humble and benevolent all of her life and raised her children to live a life of service and gratitude. Working side by side with her family was a joy she exalted daily. She was beyond proud of her children and grandchildren for their continued accomplishments. Her life was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Funeral services were Tuesday, March 7, 2 p.m., at Harmony Baptist Church with interment in Harmony Cemetery. Brother Greg Cotter and Brother Scott Donaldson were the speakers with Foreman Funeral Home directing. Visitation began Tuesday at 1 p.m.