Jo Ellen Carter

SOUTH PARIS – Jo Ellen Carter died April 1, 2026, in South Paris. Born April 19, 1940, in Greenville, Texas, she was one of three daughters of Ella and John Reue and grew up in the High Plains of West Texas.

During her childhood, Jo loved reading, playing piano, caring for her horse, and helping in her father’s clothing store.

After finishing high school, Jo Ellen attended Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas. Following her graduation, she moved to Chicago, Ill. to pursue a career in social work. While there, she met and married her late husband, Timothy Carter. Together, they later returned to Tim’s hometown of Bethel, Maine, where they managed the Middle Intervale Farm and raised three children.

Upon settling in Bethel, Jo became active in her new community. She embraced her Episcopalian faith and was an involved member of the church.

She was a dedicated Democratic Party volunteer on local and national levels, along with supporting her husband’s political career. Jodi also continued her career and education in social work.

Later in life, Jo found great happiness among the cherry blossoms of Washington, D.C. where she worked as a travel agent and enjoyed the city’s vibrant culture. Throughout this time, she nurtured her love for literature, music, and theatre—especially opera. Upon returning to Bethel, she continued to stimulate her curiosity and intellect by taking Senior College courses well into her later years.

Jodi was a loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend. She enjoyed gardening, cross-country skiing, swimming, and spending time with her horses. She will be remembered for her passion for food and the beautiful meals she prepared for family and friends.

Jo Ellen is survived by her sisters Susie Broome and Bobbie Jane West; her children, Rebecca Elizabeth Carter, John Richard Carter, and Nancy Caroline Schutt, son-in-law, Jon Schutt; grandchildren Kendra Carter, Timothy Schutt, Lily Schutt, Ella Carter, and Adelaide Jo Carter; grandson-in-law, Matthew Bolan; sister-in-law, Anne Carter, brother-in-law, Thomas Carter; and several nieces and nephews.

A service will be held to honor her life on Sunday, July 19, at 1:30 p.m. at The Middle Intervale Meeting House in Bethel.

Jo Ellen Carter