William Franklin Carter

William Franklin Carter, 96, of Puyallup, Washington walked through the gates of Heaven on July 19th, 2026. He leaves behind his loving wife of 62 years Vi, his two sons, Franklin Cleve and Bradley William; and his wife Laura. As well as the grandchildren, Addie, Ammie, Alyssa, Corey, Harmony, Julie, Matthew, Desirae, Kelsi & Karli.; and the many great grandchildren along with a host of nieces and nephews who will always cherish their Uncle Bill.

 William [Bill] was born on December 11th, 1929, in Eagleton, Arkansas; he always had a zest for life. In 1951 he enlisted in the United States Air Force and began working in radio and the country music scene until 1961. Only to then be led towards his true path, to Jesus Christ and gospel music. He became a member of the number one southern gospel quartet, The Christian Troubadours touring around the world.

Just one year later, he met the love of his life, (Lady) Vi, in Sunnyside, Washington. They were married in 1964 and the rest was history. In 1969, he began his career of full-time evangelistic ministry and for the remainder of his life he traveled the country singing and spreading the word of God until retiring in 2009 as senior pastor of The Assembly of God in Wapato, Washington.

Bill Carter was an anointed minister of the Gospel and gifted singer whose life reflected faith, love, and service, touching countless lives through his ministry, music and genuine compassion. A devoted husband, cherished father, grandfather, uncle, and friend; he had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel valued, important and deeply loved. He will be forever missed. 

“I thank you for the music and your stories of the road, we are the living legacy to The Leader of the Band”

-Julie Anna-Lee Appleton (Granddaughter)