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Oscar Junior McCarter, 85, a cherished figure of Haywood County, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 23, 1940, in the Hemphill Community of Haywood County, to the late Robert "Bob" and Sarah Nelson McCarter, Oscar was known for his honest, loving, and kind demeanor and had an unparalleled sense of humor that brought joy to those around him.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Elizabeth McCarter Fox, and his brothers, Earl David McCarter and Dayton Lee Harvey.
Oscar was a member of Jonathan Valley Baptist Church. He also dedicated 42 years of his professional life to Champion Paper of Waynesville, where he retired after serving his company with distinction. An avid outdoorsman, he was passionate about hunting, fishing, and camping. His love for sports was also evident, with a particular enthusiasm for Tuscola Mountaineer Football, where he proudly held a reserved seat since the program's inception, Tarheel Basketball, and NASCAR. Additionally, he was a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves and found great joy in fly fishing.
Oscar's legacy is one of deep familial love. He leaves behind his beloved wife, of 65 years, Carolyn Moody McCarter, as well as his three daughters, Sandy Hightower (Allen), Terri McCarter, and Charlotte Krege (Kyle); 10 Grandchildren: Paula, Jonathan, Bobby, Chad, Beverly, Jackie, Jamie, Kayla, Kourtney, and Kyle II; 11 great-grandchildren: Neveah, Abel, Joe, Noah, Gabby, Saylah, Huntley, Barrett, Haylan, Aria, and Dallas; a great-great-granddaughter: Emersyn; his brother, Robert McCarter (Linda), and sister-in-law, Bethel McCarter.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 12:45 PM to 1:45 PM at Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville, followed by a funeral service starting at 2:00 PM. Afterward, Oscar will be laid to rest at Garrett - Hillcrest Memorial Park in Waynesville at 3:00 PM.
Oscar Junior McCarter's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, community, and the unforgettable memories he created throughout his life.
The care of Oscar has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
296 North Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786

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