Joseph Carta

Joe was the beloved husband of Joan; loving father of Joseph (Mary)), Kenneth (Pam), Laura, and Steven (Tracy); wonderful grandfather to Christopher (Jennifer), Larissa (Doug), Andrew (Courtney), Chris (Tori), Christal, Brandon (Jessica), Jake (Christa), Chelsea, Nick, Ben, Olivia (Eric), and great grandfather to Corinne, Leira, Isla, Grayson, Noah, Emery, Christopher, Evelyn, Camden, Dakota, Adalyn, Keegan, Hannah, Rila, Ellie, Owen, Palmer and great great grandfather to Max. Joe is also survived by his sister, Janey (Jim), and is preceded in death by his son Michael, his grandson Thomas, his brother Michael, and his sisters Julie, Joyce, and Mary Lou.

Joe was born on May 11, 1935, in Washington, DC to Salvatore and Cecilia Carta, Italian immigrants who instilled in him strong character (and what a character at that), ethical values, and a deep and unwavering love for family, friends, horses, and music. Joe began his love for both horses and music early on in his life. Rumor has it that he kept his first horse in a garage in his home in Silver Spring, MD. He also purchased a pony for his kids and brought it home in the back of his Ford Station Wagon. Joe played guitar and had quite the singing voice. He was the leader of the Joe Carter (Carta) Band for many years and produced both albums and CDs. He was also well known and loved by many as the Singing Cowboy. He had many followers(Groupies) who enjoyed the awesome talent of Joe and his band. He continued to do musical gigs right up to the end. He was also well known throughout his music career for always having his guitar near his side and always being willing to get it out and perform for any and all who were fortunate enough to both enjoy and appreciate his talents.

Joe was also very social and truly enjoyed chatting and discussing with others. Many times, Joe was known for sitting down at a table with total strangers, exchanging life stories, and helping himself (he would ask first) to whatever they may be having. When encountering people anywhere, Joe was always the first to give one a greeting, and when asked how he was doing, would reply: "I used to be Okay". Always looking for the humor and the bright side of people and events, he really enjoyed talking with any and all.

Joe’s Italian roots were evident throughout his life, weekly through his love of family and friends. He was deeply rooted in his faith as a devout Catholic and was proud of his beliefs, always finding time to volunteer at his local church and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

Joe, with his wonderful and friendly social skills, along with his great talent in the music scene, will be sorely missed by many. A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held at a later date and time.

"Th-Th-The, Th-Th-The, Th-Th... That's all, folks!"