Johnny Ray Carter

Johnny Ray Carter, lovingly known to many as “Johnny Ray,” was born on March 2, 1958, in Kansas City, Missouri, and transitioned from this life on January 8, 2026, in Independence, Missouri, at the age of 67.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Ora Dean Carter and Johnny Smith Jr. As the eldest of his siblings, he carried the role of big brother with pride, strength, and love. He is survived by his siblings: Tyrone “Donny” Carter, Darren Carter, Ora Dean Jackson, Johnny Smith III, Jerome Smith, Jeffrey Smith, Melvin Reliford, Roy Reliford, Erma Reliford, Learlean “Cookie” Newman, Lil John Reliford, and Derek Jenkins.

Johnny was the devoted father of one daughter, Brazil Carter (Walter Taylor), whom he loved beyond measure. His greatest joy in life was being “Poppy Ray” to his grandchildren: August Taylor, Kayson Taylor, and Chozen Taylor.  Becoming a grandfather was one of the proudest and happiest chapters of his life.

Johnny proudly served his country in the United States Navy, enlisting on January 30, 1985, and honorably completing his service on January 31, 2001. During his years of service, he traveled the world and lived in many places, including San Diego, Virginia, Mexico, the Middle East, Singapore, and more. He served as a Gunner’s Mate, worked with Stinger air defense missiles, and also served as a chef aboard his ship. His military journey reflected his discipline, courage, and adventurous spirit. After the military, he worked for the City of Kansas City, MO for the Department of Streets and Traffic as a maintenance worker.

Johnny was known as the life of the party and had a gift for connecting with anyone he met. He never met a stranger-only friends he hadn’t yet gotten to know. Though he had only one child of his own, Johnny opened his heart and his home to many. His house was a safe haven, a place where everyone was welcome and where love, laughter, and support were always freely given. On his own birthday, instead of expecting gifts, Johnny would buy gifts for others, finding joy in making people feel special.

Johnny loved to cook and took great pride in feeding those he loved. He would cook and then call family and friends to come over and eat. You always had to be ready, because although he loved to cook, he also loved to try new things-his “science experiments,” as the family jokingly called them. Whether it was a favorite dish or something brand new, every meal was made with love.

Full of energy and adventure, Johnny enjoyed bowling-especially with the new bowling ball he was so excited about last year-playing tennis, and spending time playing cards. He loved to sing and dance, bringing joy and laughter wherever he went. Whether it was in the house, at a gathering, or just because the music felt right, Johnny was always ready to move and enjoy the moment.

Johnny was also known for his stories. There was always an adventure or a “crazy story” to tell, and his laughter and personality could light up any room. Though his given name was Johnny, everyone knew and loved him as Johnny Ray.

Above all, Johnny loved his family, especially his grandchildren. “Poppy Ray” was more than a nickname-it was who he was: a teacher, a guide, a protector, and a source of endless love. He often joked, saying, “I showed him that,” or “I taught him that,” even when his grandchildren had learned things on their own. Those words reflected not only his humor, but his pride in watching them grow.

If Johnny were here today, he would say, “You need to eat healthy and take care of your body, because I won’t always be here, and you need to learn how to do it without me.” Those words capture his heart-always teaching, always preparing his loved ones for life, always caring for others even beyond himself.

Johnny Ray Carter was an inspiration to all who knew him. His generosity, , adventurous  spirit, joyful  singing and dancing, and unconditional  love  will forever live in the hearts of his family and friends. Though he is no longer with us in body, his legacy of laughter, guidance, and selflessness will continue to walk beside us every day.

Online Streaming of Johnny Ray’s Funeral: JOHNNY RAY CARTER FUNERAL STREAMING LINK