David Louis Carter

David Louis Carter, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away at the age of 78 on November 30, 2025, at his home in Marshall, Texas. His beloved wife was at his side. David was born on June 17, 1947, in Carthage, Texas, to Fred Baker and Osie Lucille (Smith) Carter. He married Cathy Marie Wood on September 5, 1970, and together, they raised two children. His life was a testament to his unwavering faith, his love for his family, and his dedication to UT Longhorn football.
David graduated from Elysian Fields High School in 1965. He honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969, a period during which he bravely defended his country in the Vietnam War. Utilizing the GI Bill, he later studied kinesiology at Stephen F. Austin State University and became a formidable foosball competitor.
He was a hard worker and a jack of all trades, including fireman and ambulance driver, service department mechanic at several car dealerships, and business telephone installer and technician. He concluded his professional journey with the Texas Department of Transportation in Marshall, from which he eventually retired in 2013. His life was marked by diligence, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
David was a Christian and lived his faith through his actions and his involvement with The Simple Church in Bossier City, Louisiana. His relationship with Jesus became the cornerstone of his life, and he found great joy in fellowship and worship with his church family. An avid outdoorsman, David found joy in fishing, gardening, beekeeping, and the Texas Longhorns. His enthusiasm for life, a witty sense of humor, and his kind spirit will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
David is survived by Cathy, his wife of 55 years, daughter, Christina "Christy" Heiden (Brad); son, Chad Carter (Ashley); grandchildren Bayli Heiden, Mason Heiden, Gwyn "Gigi" Heiden, Kaya Matulewski-Carter, and Eva Matulewski-Carter; brothers, Don Roy Carter (Betty Nash) and Jerry Carter (Jan); sisters Cathy Lou Carter (William) and Vicky Elliott; and an extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lucille; older sister Linda Jo Woodley; brothers-in-law, Larry Woodley and Mike Elliott; and special Army buddy, Dave Nace.
A special thank you is extended to the Heritage Home Health and Hospice nurses and support staff.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Simple Church, 601 Benton Road, Bossier City, LA 71111 or Highway 80 Rescue Mission, 3123 W. Marshall Avenue, Longview TX 75604.