Tena Carter

Tena Carter, 81, of Wilmot, passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2025. She was born on March 14, 1944, in Hope, Arkansas, and was a graduate of Hope High School. She continued her education at both the Lindenwood University in St. Louis, Missouri and the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education.

Tena dedicated much of her life to teaching English and History, subjects she loved deeply. Her husband’s career took them around the world, and wherever life led them, Tena shared her love of learning with students in various schools. A lifelong learner herself, she enjoyed reading, playing the piano, playing bridge, cooking, traveling, and gathering friends and family around her table. She had a natural gift for hosting, socializing, and creating meaningful connections with everyone she met, a personality trait that assisted her in operating the Overflow Lodge, the family home and popular wedding venue.

Active in her community, Tena was a member of numerous civic clubs in Crossett, along with the Crossett Chamber of Commerce, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Republican Party, where her love of politics and service found a home. She was a woman of strong faith, and a devoted member of Magnolia Baptist Church, and also attended Parkdale Baptist Church.

Her life was defined by generosity, humility, and a heart for people of every background. A true “go-getter,” Tena gave of herself tirelessly, always eager to encourage, uplift, and serve others. She cherished hearing people’s stories and building lasting connections wherever she went.

Above all, Tena’s greatest love was for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith guided every step of her life and shaped the way she loved her family, friends, and community so selflessly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Judge James and Marguerite Crumpler Pilkinton.

She leaves behind her loving husband of fifty-eight years, Thomas Carter of Wilmot, AR; two daughters, Lisa Carter Arnold (Jim) of Houston, TX, and Twila Head (Dr. Randy Head) of Monroe, LA; one son, Mark Carter (Kristi) of Fayetteville, AR; and one brother, Jim Pilkinton (Twila) also of Fayetteville; along with eight grandchildren, Cameron, Caitlin, Randy II, Sterling, Presley, Norah, Jude, and Luke; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., on Saturday, September 6th at Magnolia Baptist Church, 822 Marias Saline Rd, in Crossett, with Pastor Mike Griffith, and Mark Carter, officiating, followed by interment at Crossroads Cemetery under the direction of Medders Funeral Home of Crossett. Pallbearers are Jim Carter, Steven Carter, Randy Head, M.D., Jim Arnold, Bruce Whiteside, and Cameron Arnold. Honorary pallbearers are Carter Whiteside and Randy Head, II.

Visitation will be from 2:00-3:00 p.m., at the church prior to the service.