Carlton William Lancaster

Carlton William Lancaster, 78, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away Saturday, January 23, 2021 Celebration of Life: Friday, February 5, 11:00 am, Wade Funeral Home, 4140 W Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, 76013. Burial: Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 1:15pm. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 4 at Wade Funeral Home Memorials: His memory may be honored with a gift to the Arlington ISD Education Foundation, 1141 W. Pioneer Pkwy #103, Arlington, TX. 76013 or online at http://www.arlingtonef.org and click “donate”. Carlton was born in Ft. Worth, TX on August 6, 1942, to Clel and Winnie Lancaster. He graduated from Polytechnic High School and earned a bachelor's degree from Texas Wesleyan University, and master's degree from Texas Christian University. He started his career as an educator and school administrator, working as the band director of Kennedale, Polytechnic and Eastern Hills High Schools, and then as the Director of Instrumental Music for Ft. Worth ISD. He next served as Chief of Staff for Congressman Tom Vandergriff followed by work in educational software sales for Electronic Data Systems. He then became Executive Director of Senior Citizen Services of Greater Tarrant County, leading the organization for over 20 years until his retirement in 2008. The Carlton Lancaster Legacy Award was established in his honor to recognize those working to enhance the lives of Tarrant County's older adults. He was also a member of the Texas Air National Guard, retiring with the rank of Major after 26 years of military service. He was committed to his community with activities including the Rotary Club of Ft. Worth, Leadership Ft. Worth and Arlington, Board Member of the Arlington New Beginnings Senior Housing Project, Tarrant County Gerontological Society, Texas Association of Senior Centers, and Chairman of the Tarrant County Commission on Aging. He also served a nine-year tenure on the Arlington ISD School Board holding the offices of Secretary, Vice President, and President. Undoubtedly his lasting legacy will be the indelible mark of kindness, insight, wit, humor and devotion he leaves on his family, friends and especially the lights of his life, his 5 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 40 years, Jessie Ann Horton Lancaster. Survivors: Daughter, Jennifer Gann and husband, Eric; son, Carlton Lancaster Jr. and wife, Kristi; sister Clel Myres Turner; grandchildren, Caroline Gann, Parker Gann, Olivia Lancaster, Carlton Lancaster III (Trip), and Gage Lancaster. Wade Family Funeral Home (817) 274-9233