William "Willie" Franklin Carter

William “Willie” Franklin Carter, 92, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 14, 2024. He lived his final years under the care of the VA of Kernersville, and most recently the devoted staff of Ancora/Hospice of Rockingham County, nurse Krystal and his daily caregiver Nivea. He especially was fond of Valora with Royalty Home Care. The family is forever grateful for his local caregivers, Sherry Joyce and Savannah Lockhart who helped the family greatly during this time. 

Willie was born on September 30, 1931 to Mary and John D. Carter in Rockingham County. He was later drafted into the US Army where he proudly served during the Korean War. He met the love of his life and wife of 69 years, Josephine (Jo), and was married in 1955, concluding a 17 month deployment to Germany. They moved back to the area in 1963 after first living as a couple in Newport News, Virginia, where he helped construct the aircraft carrier, USS Enterprise, a proud accomplishment. Later, they settled in Eden, NC and he was employed and retired from Fieldcrest Cannon in 1991 after 25 years of service. 

Willie was a devoted husband and father with the gift of bringing a sense of calmness to any situation. He loved working crossword puzzles, admiring vintage cars, tinkering and fixing all things, as well as caring for his feathered friends. However, no pastime was much more revered than watching his beloved Tarheels play, whether it be football or basketball. He also found ultimate joy in being with his children and grandchildren. He had a keen sense of humor, and although he was a simple man of fewer words, he could bring a room to laughter on a dime. His unfailing optimism and ability to carry on without complaint through trials and long sufferings are traits to be emulated.

 In addition to his wife, Jo, he is survived by his children: Pamela C. Williams (Larry) of Stoneville; Kathy C. Heiman (Danny) of Pinehurst; Timothy D. Carter (Mary) of Roxboro; and Amy C. Bland (Woody) of Stokesdale, NC. He is also survived by eight adoring grandchildren who will cherish the memory of their beloved Papa: Ryan Williams, Patrick Williams (Katie), Evan Heiman, Matthew Heiman, Anna Carter, Alli C.Erb (Blake), Kately Clark Morse (Jake), and Reilly Bland. He is survived by 8 great grandchildren: Colten, Issac, Nate, Lakin, Finley, Jaden, Julia and Preston, and by three step grandchildren Alex, Kaitlyn and CJ. 

Still living are his loving brothers: John David Carter (Millie) of Eden; Sam Carter of Damascus, Va.; Charles Carter (Vicky) and Sue Carter of Eden in addition to many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Danny, James, Robert (Bobby), and infant twin siblings. 

 A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Fair Funeral Home with an interment to follow at Ridgeview Cemetery. A lie in repose will be held on Wednesday, June 19th from 2:00-5:00 pm at Fair Funeral Home.

Memorials may be contributed to The First Wesleyan Church of Eden, or to Ancora/Hospice of Rockingham County. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com