WILMINGTON — Our beloved Mary Shackleton Carter of Wilmington, NC, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on May 13, 2026, after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
Born in West Yorkshire, England, Mary began her life on a farm with her loving family, which included four siblings. She attended their local church, was a member of the youth group, and taught Sunday school classes. Her first adult job was as a switchboard operator at the phone company.
Mary met and married a US military gentleman and moved to America to start her own family. She was a wonderful homemaker and raised two daughters. Mary worked as the apartment manager for Summer Hill Apartments for 20 years and then with the Housing Authority, managing Solomon Towers and other section eight housing in Wilmington NC. After retirement, she helped care for her four grandchildren, whom she adored.
Mary was a member of Cape Fear Presbyterian Church and served as a Deacon. She enjoyed singing hymns and being in fellowship with her many friends there.
Mary had a generous spirit, helping those in need and easily connecting to all people. She had a great sense of humor, was well spoken, and always well dressed, which accentuated her natural beauty. She loved listening to music, watching bands play, and dancing. Mary is dearly loved and will be greatly missed.
Mary was preceded in death by her daughter Jill Swart, brother John Shackleton, sisters Dawn Lord and Beryl Crowther, mother Evelyn Shackleton and father Willie Shackleton. She is survived by her sister Dorothy Kumar, daughter Stacy Keels, son-in-law Michael Swart and grandchildren Danielle Swart, Julian Swart, Robbie Keels and Gracelyn Keels as well as many nieces, nephews and their families who loved her dearly.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, please send donations in her name to Cape Fear Presbyterian Church, 2606 Newkirk Ave, Wilmington NC 28412.
A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at Cape Fear Presbyterian Church on Saturday October 17 at 10:00am. The service will be followed with refreshments in the church banquet hall.
