Michael E. Carter

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Edwin Carter, 61, of Staunton, on Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Michael had been diagnosed with glioblastoma (brain cancer) in November 2022, and he fought a courageous battle. Even through his toughest days, he did so with a smile and a joke here and there. He was a bright light in this world and will be deeply missed by many.

Michael was born on April 9, 1962, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, a son of Barbara Carter.  In addition to his mother, Michael is survived by his wife, Tracy (nee Sowards); his children, Christopher Bonaparte of San Diego, CA, Dexter Carter of Staunton, and Chynna Christian of Staunton; his siblings, Charles (Lisa) Carter of Staunton, Eugene (Stephanie) Carter of San Diego, CA, Diane Carter of Elk Grove, CA, Eddie (Rebekah) Carter of Staunton, Kelly Carter of Staunton, and Kecia Carter of Chesapeake; his grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; as well as sister-in-law Stacy (Jamie) Lotts of Stuarts Draft.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Merchie Walker.

Michael was a very dedicated employee of Cornerstone (previously Alcoa and Plygem) Building Brands in Stuarts Draft for 39 years. He rarely missed a day of work in all his time there until his illness. He made many lifelong friends there along the way. Those who will deeply mourn his passing. That is where he met his best friend, his brother, Mr. Chuck Price. Chuck and his wife Brenda stood by Michael through thick and thin. Their kindness and compassion throughout Michael’s illness will never be forgotten.

Michael was an avid bass fisherman. Anyone who knew him knew he would spend almost all his free time, spring, summer, and fall, fishing. He was very quick and eager to teach someone how to fish or how to tie a knot. Someone once asked him what he would like to do after retirement. His comment was “to teach kids how to fish!”. He loved to fish in ponds, streams, rivers, and his favorite of all, Smith Mountain Lake. Unfortunately, he never got to enjoy his retirement as his diagnosis was given just before.

Extended family and friends will be received from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 20, 2023, at Henry Funeral Home with the Reverend Wayne Howard officiating.

There will be no burial, as Michael’s wishes were to be cremated.

His wife Tracy, would like to give a special thanks to the UVA Neuro-Oncology team (Dr. Schiff); Augusta Health Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (Dr. Kyler); and Michael’s team at Augusta Health Surgery, Dr. Porter; his nurses, Dina, Oksana, and Randy; his PCTs/CNAs, BJ and Josh; his physical therapist, Spike; and his caregiver, Tracey Madison, as well as the staff at Hospice of the Shenandoah.

In Michael’s memory, consider donating to the Glioblastoma Research Organization (2045 Biscayne Boulevard, #189, Miami, FL 33137).