Life of Shawn Carter “Knowledge”
Shawn Carter, known to many as “Knowledge,” was born on March 15, 1978, and passed away on December 24, 2025, at the age of 47.
Shawn was not just a man — he was a presence. A force. A survivor. Someone who lived through what many don’t make it out of and still stood tall. In a world that wasn’t built to give him anything, Shawn made his own way. He walked with confidence, carried wisdom earned through struggle, and lived by
loyalty, respect, and heart. That’s why everyone called him Knowledge — because he knew the streets, knew people, and knew how to survive.
Shawn came up in Wilmington, Delaware, where life was hard and every day was a test. In a place where so many were lost too soon, he stood strong. He learned how to move smart, how to protect himself and the ones he loved, and how to keep going when everything around him tried to break him.
From that environment, Shawn became a teacher, not just a product of his surroundings.
He was, above all, a family man. To his children — Telissa, Blessing, and Knowledge — he was a source of strength, guidance, and unconditional love. He took pride in watching them grow and poured his heart into being their father.
He was not only devoted to his children, but also to his siblings, especially his brothers. Their bond was lifelong and unbreakable. He supported them through every season of life, celebrated their successes, and shared countless memories that will be cherished forever. To his brothers, he was a confidant, a loyal friend, and the heart of the family.
Shawn was a true hustler and a ghetto icon — respected, known, and never fake. He didn’t have to say
much for people to feel him. His walk, his talk, and his loyalty spoke for him. He was someone you could count on, someone who stood on business, and someone who protected his own no matter what.
But behind all that strength was a man who loved deeply — especially his children. Being a father meant everything to Shawn. His kids were his pride and his purpose, and he loved them with everything he had.
He is preceded in death by mother Estelle Wright, father Paul Thomas Carter Sr., brothers Michael Carter, Paul Carter, Thomas Carter Jr., Charles Carter, and C.B. Carter.
He is survived by his beloved children: Telissa Brionna Forrest, Blessing Brittney Carter, and Knowledge Mills; Stepchildren: Dejhon Knighton and Tyler Knighton; Fiancée: Britney Mills; Sisters: Krystal Carter, Kia Carter, Marissa Carter, and Monique Carter; Brothers: Brian Carter, Joe Carter, Larry Carter, John Carter, Jerome Carter, Ron Carter, and Perry Carter and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
