Carol O. Carter, a cherished woman remembered for her dedication to family, community, and entrepreneurship in West Yellowstone, Montana, passed away on November 28, 2024, in Ogden, Utah. Born on March 18, 1942, Carol’s life journey took her from Yost, her childhood home, to various places, eventually leading her to West Yellowstone, where she became a prominent figure in the local hospitality industry through the Pioneer Motel.
Carol’s early life saw her move with her family to Tremonton, and later to West Yellowstone, Montana, before further moves to Yuma, Arizona, and finally Ogden, Utah. Her connection to West Yellowstone, however, remained significant due to her long-term ownership and operation of the Pioneer Motel. She initially married John M. Selman, with whom she had children before later divorcing. She subsequently married Sherman Carter.
Driven by a passion for caring for others, Carol pursued and obtained a nursing degree from Weber State University. She began her professional career in healthcare at Bear River Valley Hospital, demonstrating her commitment to service. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to a significant career change when she embraced the opportunity to own and manage the Pioneer Motel in West Yellowstone, Montana. From then on, until her retirement in 2001, Carol was deeply involved in the daily operations of the Pioneer Motel, welcoming guests and contributing to the vibrant tourism of West Yellowstone, a gateway community to Yellowstone National Park.
Beyond her professional life, Carol enjoyed various hobbies and social activities. She was an enthusiastic bowler and cribbage player, and she loved to travel and spend valuable time with her friends and family. Her outgoing personality made her an active participant in community organizations, including the Eagles, Elks, and Moose Lodges. She was also known for her volunteer work with numerous local services and organizations, reflecting her caring nature and community spirit in West Yellowstone and beyond.
Carol is lovingly remembered by her children, Jana (Todd) Cooper and Jared Selman, along with her three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Nolin (Connie) Oman and Blaine (LuAnn) Oman, and her sister, Ila Jane (Bob) Belt.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Sherman Carter, and her children Karla Rae Selman, J. Mitchel Selman, and Jason Selman, as well as her sister and brother-in-law, Kaylene Oman (Larry) Ward.
A memorial service celebrating Carol’s life will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Rudd Funeral Home- Tremonton (111 N. 100 E.- Tremonton) at Noon. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. Carol will be laid to rest in the Deweyville Cemetery.
Carol O. Carter’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and the communities she served, particularly West Yellowstone, where the Pioneer Motel stands as a testament to her entrepreneurial endeavors and warm hospitality.
