Philip E. Harter

Philip E. Harter, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, in Jacksonville, NC, at the age of 91. Born on May 7, 1934, Philip lived a life marked by service, craftsmanship, and a love for family.

A visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral Home in Jacksonville, NC, on Monday, November 10, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:30 p.m. Following the service, Philip will be laid to rest with military honors at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Virgil Harter; his brother, Rosco Harter; and his sisters, Linda Hickey and Rachel Gwin.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Harter, whom he married on February 26, 2005. Together, they shared many happy years filled with laughter and love. Also survived by his children, Phillip Harter, Frank Harter and his wife Susan Hammond, Regina St. Clair, and Anthony Harter and his wife Melissa. His stepchildren: Walter Giese and his wife Evelyn, and Audrey Whitacre and her husband Jeff. His sister, Diane Vansickle. Philip was a proud grandfather to Maria Phillips, Jerry Grady and his wife Michelle, Leanna Welch and her husband Jeremy, Leslie Catron and her husband Evan, Kate Rivera Segundo and her husband Gabriel, Annie Aud and her husband Thomas Alex, and Daniel Whitacre. His legacy continues through his fourteen great-grandchildren and one great great-grandchild.

Philip proudly served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, where he worked on tanks and developed a lifelong appreciation for mechanics and machinery. After retiring from the USMC, he applied his skills as a plumber, becoming known as a jack of all trades. His hands were never idle, and he found joy in woodworking, creating pieces that will be cherished by his family for generations.

In his younger years, Philip enjoyed fishing, a pastime that brought him peace and connection to nature. Later in life, he could often be found riding his unique motorcycle, which was part Volkswagen, a testament to his inventive spirit and love for adventure.

Philip was known for his sense of humor and loved to joke with his family, bringing smiles and laughter to those around him. He was a great husband, a dedicated family man, and a friend to many.