Gene Canter

(From Clark Funeral Home)

It is with profound sorrow and a steadfast faith in the Lord that we announce the passing of Reverend Gene T. Canter, a beloved Pentecostal preacher and dedicated servant of God, who peacefully went to be with the Lord on December 9, 2024.

Born in Perryville, Missouri, on June 11, 1938, Reverend Canter devoted his life to the Gospel, becoming known for his powerful sermons, unwavering commitment to the Bible, and his tireless efforts to share the love of Jesus Christ.

He began his pastoral journey at the age of 23 when he founded Arnold Assembly of God in 1961. The church first met in the basement of an ice cream shop before constructing its current building, dedicated in 1965 "To the Glory of God." Under Reverend Canter's leadership, Arnold Christian Schools were established, and he reached many through his radio broadcast, SEND THE LIGHT.

In 1968, Reverend Canter recorded an album in Nashville, Tennessee, entitled Just One Way to the Gate, which continues to bless listeners.

In the fall of 1974, he moved to Neosho, Missouri, where he served as Dean of Students at Ozark Bible Institute (OBI). Over the years, he also held roles as Academic Dean, Director of Missions, and instructor of Bible classes. Summers were often spent evangelizing across the U.S., holding revival meetings and singing the Gospel.

Reverend Canter pastored at First Assembly of God in Joplin, Missouri, and Landmark Tabernacle in Redings Mill, Missouri. In 1996, he authored Wisdom's Treasures, a devotional and commentary on Proverbs, as well as commentaries on 1 Corinthians and Romans. His missionary work took him to Africa, Croatia, Germany, India, and South Korea, where he studied, wrote, and shared his wisdom at Pastors Bible Conferences.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mitchel and Irene Canter; brothers, Melvin, Jimmy, Junior, and Paul; his loving wife, Clara Marie; and a devoted daughter, Pamela Renee.

Reverend Canter is survived by his wife, Donna Texie Carver, whom he married on December 4, 2003; his brother, Reverend Thomas E. Canter (Lynn); and seven children: Russ (Cheryl), Dan (Rhonda), Ronda (Ron), Richard (Diana), Donald, Pam (Dan), and John D. He cherished his 22 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Services will be under the care of Clark Funeral Home in Neosho, Missouri. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at Bible Holiness Assembly of God in Neosho, Missouri. A celebration of Reverend Canter’s life will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. With Dr. Tim Laurito officiating.

The family requests memorial contributions in honor of Reverend Gene Canter be made to the Ozark Bible Institute Scholarship Fund for Gene Canter.