Don CARTER

1917 - 2017

CARTER, Don E. June 22, 1917 - March 22, 2017 Don E. Carter, age 99, of Sea Island, Georgia passed away peacefully at home on March 22, 2017. He was pre-deceased by his wife of 68 years, Carolyn McKenzie Carter, and his parents William Alton Carter and Annie Laurie Gay Carter of Plains, GA and his brother Hugh Alton Carter, Sr. also of Plains. He is survived by his cousin former President Jimmy Carter (Rosalynn) of Plains, GA, nephew Hugh Alton Carter, Jr. (Glenna) of Lake Oconee, GA, nieces Dr. Laurie Carter Tharpe (Ed) of Macon, GA, Connie Carter Collins (Leon) of Byron, GA and 17 great and great-great nieces and nephews. Don attended the University of Georgia where he was the editor of the Red & Black, the student daily newspaper. He was recently awarded the Dean's Medal from the Grady College of Journalism for his leadership and long-time support for journalism in education. After graduating from UGA in 1938, Don began an illustrious career in journalism. He was the city editor of The Atlanta Journal, first executive editor of The Newspaper Fund (Wall Street Journal), founding managing director of The National Observer (WSJ), executive editor and vice president of the Bergen Evening Record, editor of the Macon Telegraph and News (Knight-Ridder) and publisher of the Lexington, KY Herald and Leader (KR). Don spent his last active 6 years as vice president/news for 18 of Knight-Ridder's daily publications. Don spent more than 50 years in active newspaper work before returning to his native Georgia for a period of relaxed living and working at projects to improve journalism. He received many awards and distinctions over the years including serving several times as a judge for the Pulitzer awards and a lifetime service award from the American Press Institute. He continued his professional activity in retirement as a consultant for Knight-Ridder Newspapers, as a member of the board of directors of the Dow Jones Newspaper Fund and as a board director of the Red & Black at the University of Georgia. Don served our country proudly in the U.S. Army during World War II where he became a major and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in military intelligence. The Reverend Bob Brearley will conduct a memorial service on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 11:00 am at the St. Simons Presbyterian Church. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in his memory be directed to St. Simons Presbyterian Church, 205 Kings Way, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. or to Hospice of the Golden Isles, 1692 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA. 31525 Arrangements are under the direction of Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home. www.edomillerandsons.com.