Stephen F. Carter, 71, of Palm Coast, Florida, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 3, 2025.

Stephen was born on July 22, 1953, in London, England, to the late George and Iris Carter. He was a 1975 graduate of LaGrange College, where he met the love of his life, Merrill. A proud member of Kappa Sigma fraternity, he formed lifelong friendships with his fraternity brothers.

Stephen and Merrill raised their family in Georgia before he retired in 2002 and moved to Florida to be closer to family and the beach. Family was always his greatest priority—he loved hosting gatherings and celebrations, creating cherished memories with those he loved. An avid traveler, he especially looked forward to his annual trips to Blue Ridge with his grandchildren.

A passionate Georgia Bulldogs fan, Stephen rarely missed a game. He also found joy in beach life and treasured his time living by the ocean. He will be forever remembered for his deep love for family and friends, his warmth, and his sense of humor.

Stephen is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Merrill Carter of Palm Coast, Florida; daughter, Avril Carter Fojtasek (Mike) of Port Orange, Florida; son, Austin Carter and his beloved grandchildren, Lila and Noah Fojtasek. He also leaves behind his brothers, Gregory D. Carter of Martinsburg, West Virginia, Charles D. Carter (Beth) of Sandersville, Georgia and George H. "Chip" Carter of Ormond Beach, Florida; his sisters-in-law, Ginger Leftwich (Bob) of Winter Springs, Florida and Renee Jackson of Jeffersonville, Georgia; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Per his wishes, services will be private.

Stephen's legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew him.