HAMPSTEAD — James Edward “Tommy” Carter III, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025 at the age of 79. Born in 1946 in Jacksonville, North Carolina to Stella Juanita and James Edward Carter, Jr; he was a long time resident of Hampstead, NC.
Tommy was the cherished husband of Judy, his high school sweetheart. Their remarkable marriage spanned 58 years, a testament to enduring love and lifelong partnership. Together, they raised two children: Jim and Courtney. His 6 grandchildren were the lights of his life. Whether he was hunting, sharing stories, or letting them “help” in the garden, nothing made Tommy happier than spending time with his grandkids.
After graduating from Topsail High School in 1964, Tommy attended Atlantic Christian College (Barton), graduating in 1968. He then returned home to dedicate 30 years of his life as a chemistry teacher at Topsail High School. He inspired generations of students not only with his knowledge but with his patience, his humor, and his genuine care for their success. Many remember that Mr. Carter was always suspiciously absent when the first day of hunting season rolled around.
A man of many passions, Tommy was especially known for his love of the outdoors. He had a gift for training hunting dogs and was a respected judge at local and national field trials. He was the Master of Hounds for both the National Foxhunters Association, USO, and many more. He found peace and purpose in tending to his beloved garden. Produce from his fields were always in abundance and were gladly shared with friends and neighbors. Tommy was a Christian man whose love for the Lord was something he lived; through the way he loved his family, helped others, and approached each day with gratitude.
Tommy leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and commitment. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife, Judy Millis Carter; son Jim Carter (Ashley); daughter, Courtney Kaefer (Jon); grandchildren, Chase Carter (Summer), Chandler Keenan, McKinley Kaefer, Ellie Kaefer, Ainsley Kaefer and Marie Kaefer. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Regina Carter and his sister-in-law Shirley Marie Millis, who held a special place in his heart and was like a sister to him. Tommy was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Doug Carter.
A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held on, Saturday, July 5, 2025 at Wesleyan Chapel UMC in Scott’s Hill, NC at 11am with a visitation with family and luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the Wesleyan Chapel UMC Cemetery Fund or the Topsail High School Athletic Booster Club.
“Blessed are those who plant trees under whose shade they will never sit.” Tommy planted a forest.
