David "Billy Red" McCarter

In Loving Memory of David McCarter "Billy Red"
On the evening of July 14, 2026, David McCarter, affectionately known to family and friends as "Billy Red," peacefully departed this life at Bethesda North Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was 78 years old.
Billy was born on July 1, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Horace McCarter Sr. and Mary L. Smith McCarter. He grew up in the Lincoln Heights community, where he attended Lincoln Heights School and developed a lifelong love of sports, especially baseball.
A gifted athlete, Billy excelled on the baseball field and was even courted by the Atlanta Braves organization. His talent and passion for the game inspired those around him. He generously shared his knowledge with his younger brothers, helping them develop their own athletic abilities. His father took great pride in watching Billy play, making him the only one of his children whose sporting events he regularly attended.
Billy was a free spirit who lived life on his own terms. He was self-confident and always took great pride in his appearance. You could always find Billy dressed in the latest fashions of the day, right down to his stylish fur coat and matching hat. Whether he was out and about in the city or spending time with his many friends and acquaintances, Billy carried himself with confidence, charm, and unmistakable style. He enjoyed music and was blessed with a smooth, melodic singing voice. One of his favorite pastimes was participating in talent shows at the "Magic Moment" nightclub in Lincoln Heights, where he loved entertaining others.
Never one to shy away from conversation, Billy was known for his wisdom, quick wit, and engaging stories. He had a gift for making people laugh and feel at ease, and his warm personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether spending time with family and friends or simply sharing a laugh, Billy had a way of making people feel welcomed and valued. His smile could light up a room, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Billy also dedicated part of his life to serving others. He worked at Longview Hospital and later provided counseling at Prospect House and Talbert House. Although he was not an attorney, he had a remarkable understanding of the law and used that knowledge to help inmates navigate the legal system and successfully advocate for themselves. His willingness to help others reflected his generous heart and compassionate spirit.
Billy leaves to cherish his memory his children, William, Rosalyn, Ricky, and bonus daughter Nina McCarter; several beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brothers, Jimmy McCarter and Lawrence McCarter of Virginia Beach, Virginia; his sister, Theresa L. McCarter of Virginia Beach, Virginia; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace McCarter Sr. and Mary L. Smith McCarter; his siblings Benelia, Horace McCarter Jr., Steve, and Herbert McCarter; his granddaughter Arora McCarter; and his grandson Ricardo Roland McCarter.
Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in the memories Billy leaves behind. His laughter, kindness, generosity, resilience, impeccable sense of style, and love for life will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. While he may no longer walk beside us, the memories he created and the lives he touched will continue to inspire us for generations to come.
"Indeed, to Allah we belong, and indeed, to Him we shall return." (Qur'an 2:156)