Franklin Kirby Carter, Jr., age 80, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 8, with his son by his side. Born on Sept. 10, 1942, in Alamosa, Colorado, he was the beloved son of the late Franklin Kirby Carter Sr. and Helen Ethyl Earle Carter.
Franklin was a man of great character, known for his love and devotion to his wife and family. He possessed a compassionate heart and a wonderful sense of humor that brightened the lives of those around him. Quick-witted and always ready with a joke, he found joy in making people laugh.
One of Franklin’s greatest legacies was the strong bond he fostered among his children. He instilled in them a deep sense of protection and care for one another. In times of need, he cared for his ailing mother, and in turn, his wife and son cared for him during his own illness.
Throughout his life, Franklin held various jobs, each leaving its mark on him. From farming to working as a tractor mechanic and in the oil fields with Halliburton, his diverse experiences shaped his character. However, it was his time as a patrolman with the Colorado State Patrol that brought him the most pride. As a dedicated and disciplined officer of the law, he served his community with honor.
Franklin had a forgiving nature and his world revolved around his family. He found simple pleasure in a good bowl of beans and cornbread, savoring the comfort of home-cooked meals. A gifted gardener with a green thumb, he nurtured beautiful plants and took pride in their growth and harvest.
Franklin was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, James Bowns.
Left to cherish his memory is his heartbroken wife of 37 years, Virginia Carter; along with his son, Andrew Carter; daughter Audrey Rosenthal and her husband Gerry; daughter Ronna Lake and her husband Kelly; son Rick Carter and his wife Paige; son Roger Carter and his wife Kristi; and son Scott Carter and his wife Juanita.
He is also survived by his siblings, David Lyman, and his wife, Jan; Harvey “Mike” Earle and his wife, Nancy; and Nancy Sue Bowns; brother-in-law, Tom Gerrard, and wife, Wendy; brother-in-law, Benji Gerrard; sister-in-law, Mona Barnes; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other loving family members and friends.
Franklin Kirby Carter Jr. will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, compassion and dedication to his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
“This is the price you pay for having a great father. You get the wonder, the joy, the tender moments — and you get the tears at the end too.” - Harlan Coben
