Captain William Kenneth “Ken” Carter passed away on February 8, 2024, at age 52, following a courageous battle with occupational cancer incurred in the line of duty. His life was marked by faith, leadership, and unwavering service.

Born in Danville, Virginia, Ken earned his EMT certification in 1991 while volunteering during college. After graduating from Virginia Tech in 1993, he moved to Newport News, completed paramedic training, and joined the Newport News Fire Department in 1996 as a firefighter and paramedic.

Throughout his career, Captain Carter served at multiple stations, rode the EMS supervisor’s unit, and later instructed at the training center, educating hundreds of firefighters and EMS providers. He also taught advanced life support courses with Northstar First Response. Teaching was his calling. He challenged students to learn three new things in every class and referred to each test as a “certificate of knowledge,” believing growth was the true measure of success. Promoted to captain, he returned to Station 9 and led with humility and integrity.

In 2022, a routine screening led to a diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. Despite his illness, he continued serving as long as he was physically able, never complaining and always more concerned for others. When active duty was no longer possible, he returned to the training center, working from home to support the department.

In December 2023, he was honored by the Peninsula EMS Council for exceptional service. The Ken Carter Certificate of Knowledge was established to recognize the top recruit of each class.

Ken’s greatest devotion was to God and his family. He was a loving husband, devoted father, cherished brother, and proud PawPaw. He treasured hunting with his son, Brodie, and found peace at his beloved “hobby” farm—tending grapevines, planting roses, and growing lavender. He cared for the animals alongside his wife and enjoyed making jelly, jam, and venison jerky to share. His faith remained steadfast. He often said, “If this battle helps one person come to know God, then I will gladly endure the pain.”

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7