He was born in Fort Smith on November 11, 1951, to Arthur and Mary (Stem) Carter. On June 29, 1973, Mike married the love of his life, Mary McGrew, and they shared more than 52 wonderful years together.
Mike was an active and devoted member of Grace Community Church in Fort Smith. He was also a dedicated Freemason, having been raised to the degree of Master Mason on January 16, 1976, and celebrating 50 years in Masonry earlier this year on January 16, 2026. Brother Michael Rowe Carter, PM (Past Master), was originally a member of Amity Lodge before joining Jenny Lind Lodge in 2018, where he served as Worshipful Master in 2023. At the time of his passing, he was serving as the sitting Worshipful Master of Hartford Lodge. He was also a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason. Mike was also a proud founding member of the Sanctorum Guard Chapter of the Widows Sons Masonic Riding Association of Arkansas.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Michael John Carter.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Carter; his daughter, Kerri Young and her husband, Shawn; his grandchildren, Branton Carter and Kiya Dawn Young; his sister, Therisa Hester; as well as cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends who will dearly miss him.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 7, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Community Church, 4001 Brooken Hill Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72908. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Grace Community Church, https://gracefs.com/give or to Santorum Guard Chapter Widows Sons, 3512 Village Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72903.
