GREENSBORO — Wendell Henderson Carr, Sr. was born on October 2, 1944 in Richmond, VA to the late Ethbert S. Carr, Sr., and the late Virginia Henderson Carr. He was granted eternal rest on Saturday, March 12, 2011.
He was educated in the Guilford County School system, having graduated from James B. Dudley High School in 1962. He continued his studies in Automotive Technology at North Carolina A & T State University and became a well respected automobile mechanic. It was that reputation that led to his employment as the first African American auto mechanic at Black Cadillac Olds. He received several specialist certifications during his tenure in the auto mechanics field. He also worked as an Automotive Specialist in Sierra Leone, West Africa and Cameroon, West Africa. He retired in 2008 as a Maintenance Tech at North Carolina A & T University Foundation.
Wendell proudly served as a Shad in support of Von's membership in Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Additionally, Wendell actively participated in the activities of his beloved class of 1962, serving as President for 13 years. There is no doubt that he derived his greatest delight through his work as Soulful Santa. He brought smiles to youngsters and the young at heart for over 35 years. The children brought as much joy to Wendell as he brought to them. That twinkle in his eyes always seemed brighter when he was in their presence.
Wendell married the love of his life, Vaughnetta Hodge Carr, on July 3, 1969. Their marriage was definitely a match made in heaven. They truly had become one and they were able to weave a beautiful tapestry of an unforgettable love story. Intertwined in their love story was the birth of their son and only child, Wendell Henderson Carr, Jr. He was indeed his father's pride and joy. Tragically that joy turned into sorrow when Wendell Jr. unexpectedly passed away on December 15, 2010. Wendell and Von, through faith in God and each other's love and strength, were slowly but fervently attempting to once again live life without the center of their joy.
Wendell and Von had just arrived at a resort in Maryland to celebrate Von's birthday, when he fell ill and passed away.
Wendell was baptized at Providence Baptist Church at an early age, and he supported that love on a daily basis.
He is survived by his devoted wife; brothers, E.S. Carr, Jr. (Carolyn) and Victor B. Carr, Sr. (Charlene); sisters-in-law Denise H. Smith (Al) and Imelda H. Smallwood (James). Also surviving to cherish his memory are his "special daughter" Edwarde', nephews, Victor, Jr. (Tina), Anthony, Gary (G.A.); nieces, Karen, Erica (Devon), Franchesca and Laura; aunts, uncles, grandnieces (Ciara, Jacquelyn, Alana); grandnephews (Devon, Victor, Ethon); cousins, and wonderful friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the E.S. Carr & Virginia H. Carr Scholarship c/o North Carolina A & T University Foundation or Providence Baptist Church Expansion Fund.
Wendell's memorial service will be held at Providence Baptist Church, 1106 Tuscaloosa Street on Thursday at noon. Dr. Howard A. Chubbs will officiate.
