November 26, 2023, 77, La Grange —
May 25, 1946 – November 26, 2023
Randall “Coon” Earl Carter victoriously met his Savior face-to-face in the early hours of Sunday, November 26, 2023. He was born in Lenoir County to the late George Daniel Carter and Mildred Jones Carter on May 25, 1946. In addition to his parents, Coon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Rose Ann Thomas Carter; son, Randy Shawn Carter; and brother, Donald Carter.
With a stubborn streak a mile wide, Coon was determined, strong-willed, and independent. In the event he called for reinforcements, he expected them to arrive by the time he hung up the phone. If they didn’t come when he was ready, he would start or finish the project without them. There was nothing he couldn’t fix and no problem he couldn’t solve, even to the detriment of his home, tractor, or tools and equipment.
Owning his own business allowed Coon the opportunity to teach himself various tricks and trades. He enjoyed the opportunity to tinker on his tractor or start up the chainsaw for various projects. In his earlier years, Coon was a farmer and involved his children in the daily chores and work as well, even if it meant digging potatoes with spoons so as not to damage them. Coon’s retirement consisted of gardening and lots of surf fishing. Cooking a good fish stew was always a priority, and his methods left no room for any “modern mumbo jumbo”, especially when it came to dipping the eggs.
Coon had a sense of humor that never went unnoticed. He was a jokester and, on occasion, a prankster. Even in his final days, Coon continued to plan and calculate just how to confuse and surprise his children to the end.
Second only to God was Coon’s family. Coon and Rose raised their eight children with completely opposite parenting styles. He was the giver of tough love and of compassion and patience. He was proud of his children, especially in the way he raised his girls. He often stated that he felt sorry for any man married to a Carter woman. The girls always had a 10 or 11 p.m. curfew and none of the children were allowed to venture out with friends if there was any form of inclement weather. To Coon, rain or snow meant NO, you can’t go. As grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, his heart softened but his life lessons were still shared in abundance. He was a loving and supportive father, always present in the time of need.
With a powerful and relatable testimony, Coon allowed Christ to transform his life. He served the Lord and his church for many years at Trinity Free Will Baptist. If the doors were open, Coon was walking through them. His church family was dear to his heart and he was a faithful supporter and friend to his pastor. Though Coon’s family grieves their loss, they find solace in knowing he is with the Savior of his soul.
A service of remembrance will be held at Rouse Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at 2 p.m. Family will receive friends in the hour before the service. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery in La Grange.
Coon is survived by his children, Donald Carter (Tammy), Debbie Teachey (Mike), Delores Foster (Carl), Sandra Whitehead (Anthony), Stacie Whitley (Keith), Susan Bigler (Coburn), and Michele Slavin (Jason); sixteen grandchildren, Megan, Kristen, Matthew, Benny, Brittany, Brandon, Joshua, Collin, Miles, Ray, Gage, Cassie, Hailey, Logan, Courtney, and Spencer; seventeen great-grandchildren; along with many special family members and friends.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the staff at Lenoir UNC Oncology Center and Pruitt Health Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Coon’s memory may be made to
St. Jude Hospital
501 St. Jude Place
Memphis, TN., 38105
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
