Linda May Carter

SIERRA VISTA - Linda May (Nelson) Carter passed in peace on Dec. 5, 2016, from complications of Alzheimer's. Linda was born in Trinidad, Colo., on July 8, 1947 to Earl Price (Pat) Nelson and Helen (Atwood) Nelson. Linda's family moved to Pueblo in the late 50's. Linda was Valedictorian at Pueblo East High in 1965. She loved horses and was involved in Pueblo Saddle Club activities. In 1968, she was crowned Miss Colorado State Fair. She loved to promote rodeo and the western lifestyle through the Miss Rodeo Colorado and Miss Rodeo America organizations. On Dec. 19, 1968, she married Bruce Carter. They enjoyed adventures in Colorado, but moved to Arizona in 1985 to follow the work. Linda stayed for the climate, which she adored. Bruce and Linda moved to Hereford, in 2010, where Linda enjoyed her final years in country solitude with her devoted husband, Bruce. Linda is survived by her husband of 48 years, Bruce Carter; stepson, Shawn Carter; her brother, Dennis Nelson and his wife, Julie; her sister, Nicki Ann Nelson and husband, Skip; her brother, Earl Price Nelson, Jr.; cousins, Rob and Lisa Nelson and their children, Lindsay and Ryan Nelson; nieces, Robin Molzan and Lynne Shull; and nephew, Stephen Nelson. Memorial services are planned for spring. The family asks that Linda be remembered with joy and warmth at Christmas gatherings this year and beyond. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to these organizations in memory of Linda,  Alzheimer's Association  – Pueblo Office, 4104 Outlook Blvd., Building B, Pueblo, Co 81008; Miss Rodeo Colorado, C/O Nyla Bristow Treasurer, 7512 Plateau Rd., Greeley, Co 80534.