Edward Hays Carter

Mr. Edward Hays Carter was born on January 18, 1927, in Bonifay, Florida.  He was the beloved son of the late Eddison and Lanie Carter.  He was called home on Saturday, June 27, 2020. 

In 1943, At the age of 16, Edward told a “little fib” about his date of birth and joined the U.S. Army.  After his mother wrote a letter to his commanding officer informing him that he was underage, he was honorably discharged. He was finally able to legally enlist in 1945 and served 27 years. 

During his wartime stint, he toured Vietnam, Korea, and Europe.  After retirement, he earned an Associate Degree in Business and Traffic Management.

In February 1949 he married the love of his life, Thelma Garrett, and became father to three daughters.

He was known as “Sarge” by family and friends.  He was an avid fisherman, an accomplished gardener, and lovingly known by his family as an amateur photographer.  Along with his wife, he owned and operated Carter’s Day Care where they were loved and cherished by the children and their parents.  Throughout his military service and after retirement he managed several movie theaters in Germany and Columbia, SC.

Edward is survived by daughters, Barbara Carter of Columbia, SC, Angeline (Anne) Carter of Fort Washington, MD, and Sharon Carter-Brinson (Jerry) of Columbia, SC; cousin/son, Kelvin Horne of Columbia, SC; grandchildren, Ain Carter, Michael Douglas, Ashley Smith, and Joshua Legette; great-grandchildren, Audriana Smith, and David McEleveen; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will truly miss him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward Hays Carter, please visit our floral store.