Malinda Ann Hopper Carter, who was born on December 20, 1936, in Trenton, Texas, to Obie and Lucille Stewman, and died on September 21, 2026, lived a life marked by creativity, dedication, and steady devotion to the people and places she loved. Arrangements are under the loving care of Wise Funeral Home, Bonham, TX.

She grew up on a farm with her family, and those early years helped shape the warm, capable, and resourceful woman she became. Among her fondest childhood memories were learning to ride a Shetland pony and later riding her Palomino mare in local parades, experiences that reflected Malinda's lifelong appreciation for community life. From an early age, she carried with her the values of hard work, perseverance, and pride in doing things well.

Malinda was a gifted student and graduated as salutatorian of her class in Trenton, an achievement that reflected both her intelligence and her determination. She carried that same commitment into her adult life, where she built a reputation as someone who could be counted on to do her work with care and precision. Her professional path included time with Racing Fuel Incorporated, as well as work in the family clothing store, Stewman’s, where she gained experience in retail and customer service. She also worked as a merchandise buyer, a role that suited her eye for quality, style, and presentation. The store was located first in Trenton as The Malinda Shop, named after her by her mother and aunt. They closed the Trenton location to open the larger store, Stewman’s in Bonham. Later, when the Sher-Den Mall opened, she joined her parents in opening the last four stores until it closed in 1984.

Her creative talents stood out throughout her life, especially in her work as an accomplished porcelain painter. Malinda specialized in Limoges and Bone China. She also taught seminars throughout Texas from 1984 to 2005. She served in many offices for the State Federation Porcelain Art Clubs of Texas and her local chapters. Malinda was widely admired for her hand-painted Christmas ornaments, which became treasured pieces for many who saw or owned them. Her artistry reached a notable moment when Neiman Marcus displayed some of her ornaments at its Dallas store for one year, a recognition that spoke to the beauty and craftsmanship of her work.

Malinda’s life was also defined by her devotion to family. She was a wife, mother, and GiGi to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Those roles were central to who she was. In 1972, she married Richard Carter, who was her soulmate, and together they shared a lasting bond built on love, companionship, and mutual support. She brought warmth, strength, and encouragement to her home, and her presence will be remembered as one of comfort and steady affection.

She also remained engaged in the life of her community and was known for supporting small-town politics, especially during her time serving on the board of the Republican Women in Wood County as a member of the Texas Federation Republican Women. She believed in civic involvement and took that responsibility seriously, lending her voice and energy to causes she valued. Her interest in local affairs reflected her broader commitment to being an active and informed member of her community.

Outside of work and civic life, Malinda enjoyed canning, gardening, and volunteering. These interests suited her practical nature and her generous spirit. She found satisfaction in growing things, preserving what was good, and giving her time where it was needed. Her life was one of quiet productivity and meaningful contribution, and she approached each season with creativity and purpose.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Dick Carter, and parents, Obie and Lucille Stewman.

Malinda is survived by daughter, Melanie Grammar, and husband Don; son Jack Hopper and wife Merry; grandchildren, Brian Grammar, Tifany Jeakins and husband, Travis, Mark Torres and wife Kourtney, Courtney Hopper; great-grandchildren, Zacharey Grammar, Tyler Bear Grammar, Stella Jeakins, Beck Jeakins, Barrett Torres, and Paisley Hopper.

Please join the family on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Wise Chapel for visitation from 5 pm to 7 pm. The Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 11:30am with a reception to follow at Wise Funeral Home. Please join the family to honor the beautiful life of Malinda.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Lucky and Sadie's Place, a sanctuary for senior/sick dogs, or the Texas Federation of Republican Women. Donation information will be listed below.

Donations can be mailed to PO Box 371, Whitewright, TX 745491  

Lucky & Sadie's Place - PayPal: @LuckyandSadiesPlace

Texas Federation of Republican Women - https://secure.anedot.com/tfrw/donation