Renda Jane (Harrison) Carter

Renda Jane (Harrison) Carter, 75, formerly of Whitney, Texas, died on August 11, 2022, from complications of cancer after spending her last days with her family. Remembering Renda are her husband of almost 52 years, Russell; sons Colin of Ft. Worth; Matthew, wife Christina, and daughter Vivian of Austin; brother Ron, wife Linda, and their children of the Odessa area; dear friends, cousin Carlene Gribble and Abby Birdwell; as well as many other friends, family and students. Born in Haskell, Texas, to W. B. and Alminice (Weaver) Harrison, Renda possessed a wonderful West Texas sense of humor and infectious positive outlook. Her determined, independent spirit inspired those around her in everything she did as well as during her illness. She was a dedicated, lifelong educator, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Education from Texas Tech, followed by a dual Master of Education from San Francisco State and Texas Tech. She spent decades teaching children with visual impairments and multiple disabilities through the Texas Commission for the Blind and Education Service Centers. Renda finished her career teaching algebra and Latin at The Winston School in Dallas, which is committed to teaching children with learning differences. While at Winston, Renda got involved in high school solar car racing.

She was involved in the first Solar Car Challenge in 1995 and served as a judge on races from Dallas/Fort Worth to finish lines in Los Angeles; Daytona, Florida; and Newburgh, New York. After their retirement, Renda and Russell moved to the White Bluff community near Lake Whitney, where they both enjoyed the surrounding nature and their beloved dogs. Renda was especially fond of Mollie, a black Lab rescued from under an abandoned building. White Bluff was also where Renda dove into genealogy. This “hobby” proved to be a calling, and her research and documentation talents led her to serve several years as program chairman, then president of the Bosque County Genealogical Society. She was also a member of the Fort Graham Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, where she served as Registrar for two terms and Regent one term. Renda was also instrumental in local Wreaths Across America activities, providing live Christmas wreaths to be placed on US Veteran graves in Hill and Bosque Counties. Renda was a sports enthusiast all her life, and to say she was a Texas Tech fan is an understatement. She was a cheerleader in high school and played volleyball, soccer and racquetball equally well. Friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on October 29, 2022, at 1 pm at The Enclave at Round Rock, 2351 Oakmont Dr., Round Rock, TX 78665. In lieu of gifts or flowers, please consider donating to local animal rescue organizations. She was much loved. She will be missed. Arrangements by Beck Funeral Home 15709 Ranch Road 620 N, Austin, TX 78717 512/244-3772. You may view memorials at www.beckchapels.com