Doreen Carter and her family today celebrated the life of Roland Lankston Carter, Sr., described by friends and those who knew him as a wonderful husband, devoted dad and gifted athlete.

Mr. Carter died of a heart attack on Jan. 22. He had been a dialysis patient for several years. He was 52.

Several dignitaries and people from the business community were among the crowd who attended Mr. Carter's homegoing service including DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May, Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson, Lithonia Council member Darold Honore and members of the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce, headed by Mrs. Carter. The funeral was held at 11 a.m. at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia.

The Carter family thanked all three church congregations that have been a part of the family's life: Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, where Roland, Sr. was baptized; New Birth, where Roland and Doreen were married and where he served on the usher board and choir; and the dReam Center Church of Atlanta, where Doreen is now a member.

Pastor William H. Murphy III of the dReam Center Church delivered the eulogy. Bishop Eddie L. Long, senior pastor of New Birth, was out of town, but issued a resolution that was read on behalf of him and his wife, First lady Vanessa Long. Bishop Long offered his condolences, his spokesperson said.

Mr. Carter's sons stood before the congregation today and paid a tribute to him, thanking him for the sacrifices that he made, even during hard times. The eldest son, Roland, II, recalled his dad as a mischievous and rebellious jokester that made him laugh. The youngest,Joshua, covered his eyes, too shy to speak.

Mr. Carter is the son of the late Herman L, Carter, Jr. and Jeanie Carter. He graduated from Oakland Technical High school in 1979. During his senior year in high school, he earned a position on the McDonald's All America Basketball team. He court name was "Sweet." He later went on to play at Jackson State University where he and Doreen met. He moved to Atlanta after playing in the Canadian Basketball League.

Mr. Carter leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Doreen; their three sons, Roland, II, Caleb, and Joshua; daughter Shonnie Ashanta' Grisby; a granddaughter; three sisters; three brothers; and a host of other relatives.