Herbert Lee Salter, Sr.

HERBERT LEE SALTER SR. was born on March 16, 1940, in Baltimore, MD to the late William and Annie Salter, being the fifth child of ten brothers and sisters. He attended Baltimore City Public Schools and graduated from Douglass Senior High School in Baltimore, MD. Shortly afterwards, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served his country from 1959 to 1963. After being honorably discharged, he went on to work for the Maryland Transit Administration as a bus driver for several years. His second career choice was Bethlehem Steel at Sparrow Point. As a skilled welder, Herbert was pragmatic with issues, which is why it was no surprise he was elected as a shop steward. Herbert was the first contact when employees faced work-related issues and concerns, confidently walking that thin line between managers and the labor force within the company. This experience sparked his desire to continue his education at Dundalk Community College, where he majored in philosophy. Herbert also worked for a short period with the IRS and later developed a successful business, H&S Tax Service, once again showing his brilliance, drive, and ability to excel in every field he entered. Herbert Lee Salter Sr. was a man of great character, selflessly offering his time and gifts to everyone around him. A family man that also remained active in the community. Following his retirement, Herbert devoted his leadership talents to the Washington Hill Mutual Homes (WHMH) Cooperative, where he served with distinction as a Board member and as Board President. His legacy at WHMH continues as those he’s mentored carry the mission forward. The WHMH community affectionately refers to him as “Mr. Washington Hill” and will forever value his contributions. Herbert started his walk with God at John Wesley Methodist Church, where he raised and mentored his family to have a relationship with Jesus. As he grew in fellowship, his desire to follow Jesus deepened. Alongside his brother Joe, he worked with the Men’s Outreach Ministry, sharing experiences and guidance with those in need. He believed in and worshiped God wholeheartedly. Herb was charismatic, chivalrous, strikingly handsome, and exceptionally intelligent. He moved with a firm, unhurried stride, every step marked by strength and deliberate purpose. His influence and leadership resonated across the entire family. He was intentional, endearing, and loving with his words. He even created heartfelt nicknames for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Sk-leepy, Greedy bird, Swoops, Slugger, Poopie Swoop, No No, Mimi, Little Beau and My Special Grand, to name a few. No obstacle or difficulty proved insurmountable for him. He fed his family and friends wisdom through his strategic insights, resilient solutions, and boundless support. A natural orator, he spoke with clarity, passion, and authority, always championing the cause of those he loved. He lived by a personal mantra: firm, friendly, and fair. His demeanor was confident yet humble, marked by resourcefulness and a deep passion for his family and community. Positive and open minded, he left a powerful and lasting impression on everyone he met. He leaves to mourn: his loving and devoted wife, Arlene Salter; ex-wife and everlasting friend, Audrey Smith; children, Herbert Jr., Tracie, and Deborah who preceded him in death; oldest sister, Lorretta Salter; and youngest brother, John Salter; grandchildren, Brittany, Morgan, Brooke, Cheyenne and Skyler; and a host of nephews, nieces, and five great-grandchildren.

Tributes

Herbert Lee Salter, Sr.

March 16, 1940 - November 23, 2025