Holly Carter
In a quiet neighborhood just outside of Roland, kindness and compassion shine through the bond between 41-year-old Holly Carter and her elderly neighbor, 89-year-old Phyllis Henderson. For the past five years, Carter has been a lifeline for Henderson, stepping in to care for her after the unexpected passing of Henderson’s only son. “Holly has been a blessing,” Henderson says, her voice filled with gratitude. “She’s not just a neighbor — she’s family.”
In a quiet neighborhood just outside of Roland, kindness and compassion shine through the bond between 41-year-old Holly Carter and her elderly neighbor, 89-year-old Phyllis Henderson. For the past five years, Carter has been a lifeline for Henderson, stepping in to care for her after the unexpected passing of Henderson’s only son. “Holly has been a blessing,” Henderson says, her voice filled with gratitude. “She’s not just a neighbor — she’s family.”
What began as small acts of kindness, like taking out the trash or mowing her lawn, has grown into a deep connection. Carter now helps Henderson with grocery shopping, doctor’s appointments, and even preparing meals.
“She’s like a grandmother to me,” Carter says. “I couldn’t just stand by and not help her when she needed someone the most.”
Henderson, who has lived in the area for over 40 years, was devastated by her son’s passing in 2018, which left her without immediate family nearby. Carter, who had always been friendly with her, felt a sense of duty to step up and support her in any way she could.
“She was always so independent, but after losing her son, she needed someone to lean on,” Carter explains. “I’m just glad I could be there for her.”
Their bond goes beyond chores and even shared holidays. The two have formed a genuine friendship, often sitting on Henderson’s porch and chatting about everything from local news to memories of the past. Carter has come to know Henderson’s stories — about her childhood in the area, her late husband, and her time as a teacher in Fort Smith — better than most.
“She’s a fountain of wisdom,” Carter says with a smile. “I’ve learned so much from her, and it’s been a joy to get to know her on such a personal level.”
In turn, Henderson says Carter has brought light and laughter back into her life.
“She checks on me every day, even if it’s just to say hello,” she shares. “It means the world to know someone cares.”
Carter’s care extends beyond the basics. Together with her husband, Aaron, she has ensured Henderson’s home is safe, installing grab bars in the bathroom and replacing old smoke detectors. On holidays, Carter decorates Henderson’s house to make her feel festive and always brings over a plate of food from her family gatherings.
For Carter, it’s a labor of love. “It’s about community,” she says. “We all need to look out for one another, especially our elders. She’s given me just as much as I’ve given her,” Carter reflects, “It’s not about what you do — it’s about the relationships you build along the way.”
As Henderson sums it up, “Holly has made all the difference. I don’t know what I would’ve done without her.”
Just Folks is Your TIMES way of honoring the regular people of Sequoyah County, recognizing their unique talents, personalities, jobs, abilities, etc. Your TIMES appreciates the cooperation of each Just Folks and the public’s nominations for this feature. If you know of someone you think might be a good story, contact Amie at 918-775-4433.
