Jerome Hugh "Jerry" Carter

Jerome "Jerry" Hugh Carter, 58, of Hagerstown, MD, passed away on September 13, 2025, at Meritus Medical Center. He was born on October 30, 1966, in Paw Paw, WV, to the late Jerome Carter and Nanette Gilbert Carter.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Alicia Carter; daughter DesiRee Carter, 36, of Hagerstown, MD; stepson Jimmy Fiddler, 39, of Carthage, TN and wife Robin; and sister Terra Carter Salisbury. He was a proud grandfather to Kaylee Scott, 18, of Sterling, CT; Carter McChesney, 16, of Hagerstown, MD; Jimmy Fiddler Jr., 16, of Hedgesville, WV; Kelsea Preiss, 16, of Sterling, CT; Salem Fiddler, 5, and Della Fiddler, 3, of Carthage, TN. He also leaves behind his beloved "grand pup," Izzy, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Christian Carter.

Jerry was a longtime employee of CertainTeed Corporation in Williamsport, MD, where he served as a siding supervisor. He thought the world of his team and valued the relationships he built there.

Jerry loved the outdoors-especially deer hunting and going to the gun range with his grandson Carter. He also enjoyed taking long walks and keeping track of his progress as part of his journey to better health. Traveling with Alicia was one of his greatest joys, whether it meant relaxing at the beach, driving through the mountains, or pulling off the road to check out a new restaurant, quirky shop, or scenic view.

Cooking was another passion of his, and he even turned it into a small business, Carter's Cantina, LLC. Whether he was grilling, smoking, or experimenting with recipes, Jerry always found ways to put his own spin on things. Family and friends eagerly lined up for his "porch pick-up" days just to get a taste of his creations.

Above all, Jerry loved his family. He found joy in simple moments: sharing a meal, watching a movie, taking pictures, going on road trips, surprising Alicia and DesiRee at work with flowers or milkshakes, or cheering loudly at his grandson's games. He also made it a point to support the businesses of those he loved-he believed in showing up for people. His last words were "I love you all. I truly love you."

Jerry will be remembered for his radiant smile, quick wit, tough edges with a teddy-bear heart, and his famous "Ted Talks" that left everyone both laughing and thinking. He will be missed immensely by all (well… most) who were lucky enough to know him.

A memorial service will be held on September 26, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at J.L. Davis Funeral Home, 12525 Bradbury Avenue, Smithsburg, MD. A celebration of life will follow on October 30, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Hager Hall Event and Conference Center, 901 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, MD.

In true Jerry fashion, the family asks that instead of flowers, you bring your best stories, your biggest appetites, and maybe even a milkshake-because Jerry wouldn't want a room full of tears when it could be full of laughs and good food.