Allene Belle Matthews Carter

Allene Belle Matthews Carter was born on December 31, 1923 in Washington, D.C. to the late Wayman and Beatrice Matthews. She was called to eternal rest on Thursday, December 15, 2022. She was the last of seven children born to Beatrice Matthews Bates. The family moved to Baltimore where her aunt Lillian Bailey Johnson, a founding member of Calvary Baptist Church and husband John would help raise Allene and her siblings. Allene attended Baltimore Public Schools, and was proud to say she was taught by the late NAACP civil rights activist and Calvary member, Enolia P. McMillan. At a very young age Allene joined Calvary Baptist Church and was baptized by the founding pastor, Reverend Richard T. Reed. Allene loved to sing and was a member of the Women’s Choir and Gospel Chorus. She was also a member of the Ladies Guild and the Golden Age Club, ( now known as the Prime Age Ministry). Allene had the distinguished honor of being the oldest member of Calvary. Allene was employed at Fish Dry Cleaners as a presser before retiring as a domestic worker. She was a great cook and was known for her 1-2-3-4 pound cake but most especially for her “sweet” stewed tomatoes! She also loved to read the bible and to do “Word Search” Puzzle books, because she read it would help keep her mind sharp . And a sharp mind she had, having a quick “No Nonsense Response “ all the time. Being a devoted mother to her daughters, Sheila and Michelle (Shelly) brought her much joy. She made many sacrifices to ensure they were well taken care of and attended Sunday school and church. When her grandson Marvin was born, he became the apple of her eye. They shared a special unbreakable bond. Allene was overjoyed at becoming a great-grandmother (Mom Mom) when Marvin Nasir was born. She made sure he knew how proud she was of his school accomplishments and that she loved him. Allene’s love of family extended to her nieces, nephews and cousins. For years she kept up with everyone’s birthday. Later in life, Allene married David N. Carter, also a Cavalry member. Rev. Dr. Lorenzo Graves, Jr. performed the ceremony. During a 2013 surgery Allene said the Lord gave her a song, Down Through the Years (The Lord’s Been Good To Me). This song became her testimony and she loved to sing it to family and friends, inserting their name and age to make it more personal. Obituary A woman small in stature but over the years, Allene demonstrated a strong resolve. She maintained her own apartment until age 97. Putting her trust in God, she kept moving. Even through her aches and pains she never gave up and never lost her faith in God. Allene lived a long and fulfilled life, being an inspiration to many. She was very appreciative of all who showered her with many acts of love and kindness throughout her life. Allene’s husband, the late David N. Carter and her loving daughter, the late Michelle Matthews Nemes preceded her in death. Allene’s precious memories will be cherished by her daughter, Sheila Matthews; grandson, Marvin H. Harris; great-grandson, Marvin N. Harris; niece, Barbara Cooper; nephew Elwood Toliver (Patricia); great niece Sheranda Dildy (Brian); goddaughter, Janova Giddiens; great and great-great nieces and nephews, a host of cousins and friends. ( some who lovingly called her Mom). In addition, her memory will be cherished by Hazel Tillman, who she affectionately called her adopted daughter; Ivory Sye and Joyce Jeffers, long time friends and helpers when she resided at Bon Secours Benet House.

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Allene Belle Matthews Carter

December 31, 1923 - December 15, 2022