Alfred DuBois Carter

Alfred DuBois Carter was born to the late Douglas and Elizabeth Carter on July 25, 1927 in Alexandria, Virginia. He was the youngest of seven children. The mirror image of his father, Alfred was affectionately known as “Bumpy” to his family, as he was a “bump off the old log.” Alfred was raised in Alexandria, Virginia, attending Parker-Gray Elementary and Lyles-Crouch School. As a young man, he attended and graduated from Parker-Gray High school in 1944. While pursuing higher education at Virginia State College in Petersburg, Virginia, Alfred was drafted into the United States Army in 1946. Alfred proudly served his country oversees in Italy until 1947. Upon completion of his duties to his country, Alfred returned to Virginia State College. During his undergraduate career, he was the star quarterback of the football team. He was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Upon graduating with his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, with a minor in Biology in June 1951, feeling ready to conquer the world, Alfred turned his sights back to Alexandria, determined to make a difference. In 1952, Alfred returned to Parker-Gray High School as a biology and social studies teacher, beginning his lifelong dedication as an educator in his hometown city. He was eventually assigned as a full time physical education instructor, coaching the football team, assisting in coaching the track team and reviving the baseball team at the school. During his time at Parker-Gray High School, he played semi-professional football with the Alexandria Rams. After the integration of Alexandria Public Schools, he was the first black assistant football coach. Alfred continued teaching physical education and coaching at George Washington Middle School, serving as the chair of the physical education department. In January 1991, Alfred retired from teaching in the Alexandria Public Schools, having remarked he enjoyed every minute of his time teaching and coaching. Retirement from the school system did not end his contributions to the city. Alfred continued teaching behind the wheel driving and driver improvement classes for high-school students and adults until December 2000. He was a long time member of Roberts Memorial United Methodist Church. Alfred married the love of his life, Justine Newman, on January 23, 1953. Their loving 64 year union resulted in four children; Anthony, Kim, Krista and Kevin; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He will be remembered by family, in-laws, friends, and a myriad of students and colleagues for his kind, patient nature, quick wit and sense of humor. Alfred’s life serves as an inspiration of true manhood and fatherhood to all who knew him or had the pleasure of making his acquaintance. Alfred was a passionate collector of clocks. He was always adding a new, unique clock to his collection. Every hour, on the hour, a lovely chorus of chimes and bells would fill the house. It is a beautiful irony that he is now beyond “Always do the best you can, no one can ask you for more.” -A.D. Carter

Alfred DuBois Carter

July 25, 1927 - September 13, 2017

Explore Obituaries &
Upcoming Services