Patricia Mary Carter

Patricia Mary Carter passed away peacefully at home in Santa Barbara this May after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Pat was born in Pearl River, NY where her father, Col. Henry Cooper, was stationed in the US Army. One of twelve children, she lived her early life as an “Army Brat” with stops in England, Germany and throughout the US. These early adventures helped shape Pat’s lifelong love of travel.

After a year in nursing school in London in 1966, Pat was hired by Trans World Airlines in 1967 as a hostess. She met Nick Carter, a TWA pilot, in 1968, and it was truly love at first sight. Using their free tickets, Pat and Nick explored the world from Africa to Tahiti. They were married in the Bahamas in 1971. Daughter Angela followed soon after in 1973. Son Christopher came later in 1980.

Returning to California, Pat began her passion for caring for animals which lasted until the end. From rescuing lost pets to fostering greyhounds, Pat was always taking care of something. She started working with wildlife and songbirds in the 90s, eventually volunteering many hours at SB Wildlife Care Network. She was always willing to get dirty cleaning cages and handfeeding hummingbirds. Pat made many lifelong friends volunteering, and continued traveling the world.

She had an innate ability to talk and connect with anyone and everyone. Diagnosed with cancer in 2017, Pat bravely overcame and won this first bout. She continued traveling, volunteering and seeing her four grandchildren – Nate, Charlotte, Noelle and Theo. Unfortunately, the cancer came back.

She is survived by her husband, children and grandchildren who miss her dearly. Her family is thankful for the support of her friends, neighbors, and the care provided by VNA Health during Pat’s final days. She will be remembered for her belief that every creature deserves kindness and care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SB Wildlife Care Network.