Michele Carter

Celebrating the Life of Michele “Missey” Carter

Michele “Missey” Carter was born on August 20, 1953, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Ruth Jones and Charles Strader, Jr. She was raised surrounded by the love of her parents and siblings, and those early family bonds helped shape the warmth, strength, and character she carried throughout her life.

Michele was a proud graduate of Aiken High School, Class of 1971. She went on to become one of Cincinnati’s most beloved in-home childcare providers. For generations of families, she was affectionately known simply as “Ms. Missey.” Her home was a place where children were cared for, families were welcomed, and countless memories were made. Her impact reached far beyond childcare—she became a trusted and cherished part of the families she served.

Michele had a personality that was impossible to overlook. She was the life of the party, bringing energy, laughter, and her unmistakable presence wherever she went. She loved fashion, hair, and nails and knew exactly how to dress to impress. Looking good was an art to Michele, and she wore her style with confidence and pride.

But her creativity extended well beyond fashion. Michele was incredibly talented with her hands, able to knit seemingly anything and transform a blank page into something that looked like a masterpiece through her coloring and artistry. She had a natural creativity that made everything she touched uniquely her own.

And then there were crossword puzzles. Michele had a sharp and curious mind and could seemingly finish three crossword puzzles before anyone else had completed one. Her quick wit and intelligence were just another part of what made her so memorable.

At 72, Michele leaves behind a legacy defined by love, laughter, creativity, style, and the countless lives she touched. She was, and always will be, “Ms. Missey”—a woman whose presence made an impression, whose personality filled a room, and whose memory will remain a treasured part of the lives of all who knew and loved her.

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