James Larry Carter

James Larry Carter entered a final, peaceful, and pain-free rest on the evening of June 4, 2025, in the presence of his family at Marianna Health and Rehab. Larry was born to Paris Wayne and Mary Elizabeth (Montford) Carter on September 28, 1956, in Stuttgart, Germany. He was the last of five children the family was blessed with. In 1959, the family moved back to Florida and settled in the Scotts Ferry Community in Calhoun County near relatives. Then, in 1970, they acquired land from a relative in Gulf County and moved there. Following graduation from Wewahitchka High School, Larry joined the Marines but was honorably discharged before he could serve out his enlistment due to medical issues that plagued him throughout his life. Between health crises, Larry pursued a variety of interests, from playing the drums in a band to traveling around the country with a friend who had a booth in a carnival. He worked with his parents when they opened Carter's Restaurant in Gulf County, and when the restaurant closed, he began working on the Southern Elegance Cruise Ship out of Panama City as a chef, where he continued his love of cooking. Then, he found his calling, working with "Mr. Jim." He became a talented cabinet maker, a career he genuinely enjoyed until his health necessitated his retirement. Larry was married to Hope Peacock in 1981, and they had one daughter, Sarah Elizabeth, born in 1982. In 2014, Sarah gave birth to their only grandchild, Paris Joy Southerland, who became the joy in Larry's existence. When Sarah was in high school, Larry became an assistant coach to her softball team, a job he continued for several years after she graduated. With Williams Memorial Methodist Church just down the road from his childhood home, Larry was raised in the Methodist faith, though it was not until later in life that he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Larry had a sharp mind with a quick wit and a dry sense of humor. He loved his family and was always willing to help wherever he could. He loved children, doting on his nieces and nephews and later the great-nieces and great-nephews. Each one holding a special place in his heart. Until recently, he was often found on his lawn mower listening to '70s rock music. He loved sports, especially softball and anything with the Seminoles, also, the beach, golf, his jeep, Copenhagen, playing his drums, but most of all, spending time with his precious granddaughter. He will be remembered for his grit and determination, overcoming several near-death illnesses.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mae Helen McCowen; sister, Ouida Delores Carter-Evans; brother-in-law, Tommy Williams; and brother-in-law, Herman Newsome. Leaving behind to mourn his loss are his daughter, Sarah; granddaughter, Paris; sister, Mary Ann Williams; brother, Roger Wayne Carter (Lisa); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends. Memorialization is by cremation, with a memorial service being held on June 14, 2025, at the Peavy Funeral Home Chapel in Blountstown. Visitation is at 10:00 AM CT and the service is at 11:00 AM CT. The family has requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the American Kidney Fund. All arrangements are under the direction of Peavy Funeral Home.