Suzanne Kizer Carter

Suzanne Kizer Carter, a cherished soul whose warmth and love touched many, passed away on April 21, 2025, in Marshall, Texas. Born on February 15, 1955, in Commerce, Texas, Suzanne, or "SuSu" as she was affectionately known by her family, lived a life marked by devotion, joy, and a deep-seated love for her family and community. Suzanne's journey began in the heart of Commerce, Texas, where she was embraced by the love of her parents, Jim and Sue Kizer, and her sister, Michelle Kizer Morris. Her foundational years were spent surrounded by the nurturing environment of her family, including her maternal grandparents, Luther and Mary Johnson, and paternal grandparents, John and Pearl Kizer, all of whom preceded her in death. Her educational path was a testament to her commitment to growth and service. Suzanne graduated from Commerce High School in 1973, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Consumer Home Economics and a Master's degree in Business Administration both from East Texas State University. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, having been baptized at an early age at First Baptist Church in Commerce and later becoming a faithful member of First Methodist Church in Marshall. Suzanne's professional life was as impactful as it was impressive. She served as the Dean of Enrollment Management at Texas A&M University Commerce for many years before moving to Marshall where she retired as Dean of Enrollment Management at the Marshall campus of Texas State Technical College. Her dedication to her community was further recognized in 2019 when she was honored with the Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year award. Suzanne's commitment to her community could be seen through her extensive volunteer work. She was a vibrant force behind the Wonderland of Lights Festival, the Marshall Farmers Market, and served as Chairman of the Main Street Committee in Marshall. Her service extended to the Marshall Education Foundation Board, and she was a proud member of Belle Maison. Alongside her close friend, Marianne Havron, Suzanne also enjoyed success with their antique business, The Funky Junkers. Family was Suzanne's greatest joy. She shared 22 beautiful years with her husband, George Carter III, and was a loving mother to sons James Everett Woodley with wife Lana, and Matthew Stephen Woodley with wife Klyssa. SuSu was an adoring grandmother to Chase, Madison, Greyson, Jadyn, Jynli, and Westin Woodley. She is also survived by her step-son, George Carter IV and Melanie and Melanie's son Rex; her sister-in-law, Lal Terrell and her husband "Yank" and their children, Trey Terrell and Cabe Terrell and his wife Kim. Her sister, Michelle Morris and husband Neil, and her nephews, Joe Morris with wife Jenny and Will Morris, held special places in her heart. Suzanne's circle of love and laughter extended to her close friends, Dana and Marianne Havron, Ted and Angela Huffhines, and Richard Kale, among many others who knew and loved her. Suzanne's hobbies and passions were a reflection of her vibrant spirit. She found immense pleasure in her flower garden, sharing the beauty of her zinnias and the cherished Dutch irises from her mother's garden with friends and family. Her memories were rich with the sounds of cheering at Commerce Tiger football games and the satisfaction of supporting her boys in their FFA projects. Her homemade salsa, pickles, and pear preserve jam were legendary and a testament to her love for nurturing those around her. Suzanne's legacy is not only in the trails named after each grandchild and her nephews at "the cabin" or the family vacations that bonded them closer but also in the countless lives she enriched with her generosity, kindness, and unwavering support. Suzanne Kizer Carter's memory will be a beacon of love and strength for all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her beloved family and friends for generations to come. Honorary pallbearers will be George Carter IV, Matt Woodley, Jim Woodley, Joe Morris, Will Morris, Greyson Woodley, Neil Morris, Chase Woodley and Westin Woodley. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorials honoring Suzanne to Marshall Education Foundation, P.O. Box 8303, Marshall, TX 75671 or to a charity of your choice.