WARSAW—Carlton Milstead Jr. of Warsaw passed away on January 19, 2026, at Chippenham Hospital in Richmond.
He was born on October 6, 1932, in Fredericksburg, the son of Carlton and Lena Milstead. He married the love of his life, Betty “Betsy” Jean Holm Milstead, on May 18, 1956. They were married for 63 years.
Carlton was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His faithfulness to the ministry touched hundreds of lives during his over 65 years as a pastor. His influence and devotion to sharing the Word of God in the pulpit, homes and hospitals touched those in search of God’s Word and in need of comfort and guidance.
After graduation from Spotsylvania High School, Carlton attended Carson Newman College in Tennessee where he met his future wife, Betsy. After marrying, their pastorates included Arvonia Baptist Church, Buckingham Baptist Church, Bruington Baptist Church and finally the church fields of Lebanon, Norwood and Providence Baptist Churches. In 2019 they celebrated their 50th anniversary at this church field. Their love for their church families and the love they received in return has always been appreciated.
In addition to his ministry, Carlton had many interests including history, rock hunting and playing the guitar and singing with Betsy. Carlton enjoyed his family most of all while leaving a lasting legacy upon his sons, daughter-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Carlton is survived by his sons, David of Richmond, Michael of Fredericksburg and John and his wife Jennifer of Lakeland, Florida; granddaughters, Charity, Bethany, Grace and Leah; great-grandchildren, Angel, Brent, Christopher, Diamond, Ember, Genesis, Christian and Lily; niece, Cindy Rogers; and nephew, Guerry Holm.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, at Lebanon Baptist Church in Alfonso. Interment followed the service in the church cemetery. Family received friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family requests donations to Lebanon Baptist Church, 1712 Lara Road, Lancaster, VA 22503.
