Bradley (Brad ) Kent Carter , born in Tampa on April 9, 1940 and raised in Miami, Florida, passed Sunday evening, March 2, 2025.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents Thomas A. Carter and Ernestine Estevez Carter and sister Marilyn Ratliff. He is survived by his husband Garey Wisdom, his nieces Ginny Ratliff Snyder (Jason) and Gail Ratliff, and nephew Wesley Ratliff (Beth).

A longtime resident of Dallas, Brad served as a professor of Political Science at Southern Methodist University (SMU) starting in 1970 until his retirement. He received his A.B. from the University of Miami, his M.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. Professor Carter taught political and organizational theory but he also taught undergraduate courses in the General Education Curriculum and graduate courses in the Master of Liberal Arts and Master of Liberal Studies programs. He wrote on the political ideas of James Madison and Mary Parker Follett. Professor Carter served the Political Science Department in several roles, including undergraduate director from 1999-2014. His service to the University included a 14-year membership on the Faculty Senate, with three terms as secretary and one as president, and 19 years as Chief Marshal of the University with responsibility for academic ceremonies. He has twice been honored as a Rotunda Outstanding Professor, twice received the Willis M. Tate Award for Distinguished Teaching, and received the "M" Award, SMU's most prestigious teaching honor determined by the students themselves. Upon graduation, Douglas Bauer, a former student, established the Bauer Incentive Scholarship in Professor Carter's honor. He retired as Professor Emeritus of Political Science.

Brad was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. He was a beloved SMU professor who imparted his love of knowledge while challenging his students to rise to their highest potential. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him.

Born with a generous spirit and kind heart, he approached each day as an opportunity to make a difference. Whether through a thoughtful word, a helping hand, or simply his warm presence, he showed what it meant to live with purpose and grace.

As a beloved husband, professor, friend, and community member, he exemplified the values of integrity, humility, and selfless service. In times of joy, he celebrated with wholehearted enthusiasm; in times of struggle, his strength and resilience inspired those around him. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the memories we cherish, and the lessons he imparted.

Though we mourn his absence, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit endures in the hearts of all who knew him. A life well-lived is never truly gone.

Brad's Requiem will be held Saturday, March 29th at St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church at 11:00am followed by an inurnment at the Royal Lane Columbarium at 12:30, and a Celebration of Life Reception in the church's Vickery Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a meaningful charity of your choice in Brad's honor.