Gary Curtis Carter, 77, of Hackett, Arkansas was called to his heavenly home on November 3, 2024. He was born on January 23, 1947 in Fort Smith, he was the beloved son of Arthur C. Carter and Mary Eva (Stem) Carter, whom proceeded him in joining the Lord. A proud veteran, Gary served his country in the U.S. Navy, completing a tour of duty in Vietnam. He retired from Gerber Products Co. in Fort Smith.
Gary married his lifelong love, Kathleen (Grubbs) Carter of Milwaukee, Wisconsin on March 8, 1967 at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego, California, forging a partnership of 57 years of love & devotion.
Gary was known for his infectious laughter and love for making others smile. An infamous jokester and gifted artist, he found great joy in drawing for others. His sketches are treasured across local businesses, where he shared quick, personalized artwork with everyone he met.
He loved working with his hands, whether he was meticulously manicuring his yard, crafting holiday-themed lawn ornaments from wood, or building intricate model train sets. Whatever Gary created, he always infused it with his unique artistic touch.
Faith was central to Gary’s life. After rededicating his life to Jesus, he became an active member of First Baptist Church in Hackett, rarely missing a Sunday service. He cherished reading scripture and ended each conversation, whether with friends or strangers, with a heartfelt and gentle “Love you and God Bless You.”
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; daughters, Christen Carter-Dean and her husband, Jeremy of Fayetteville, AR and Laura Lovelace of Roland, OK; his dear sister and brother, Therisa Hester and Mike Carter and wife, Mary of Hackett; three cherished grandchildren, Curtis Christian and his wife, Kate of Colorado Springs, CO, Caitlin Sory and her husband, Harley of Booneville, AR and Max Lovelace of Huntington, AR, along with five great-grandchildren whom he was so very proud of.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m., Friday, November 8 at Hackett First Baptist Church with burial at Old Union Cemetery in Hackett under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. Viewing will be Thursday from 1 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home, where the family will visit with friends from 5 – 7 p.m.
Pallbearers will be Curtis Christian, Jeremy Dean, Max Lovelace, Harley Sory, Tony Parker and Alex Barron.
Honorary pallbearer will be Mike Carter.
Gary’s life was marked by his faith, humor, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
