Thomas William Carter, age 72 of Lake Waynoka passed away August 4, 2026, at Hospice of Anderson. He was born on August 26, 1953, in Cincinnati the son of the late William and Mary Frances (nee McGee) Carter.

He was never one to seek the spotlight. He found happiness in the quiet moments-being outdoors, hiking wooded trails, casting a fishing line into the water from his boat, or simply enjoying the peace that nature offered. One of his lifelong dreams was to own a farm and live a simple life.

One of his favorite places to be was the campground at Lake Waynoka. He enjoyed spending time there with his friends, sharing conversations, drinking a beer, relaxing around the fire, and appreciating the slower pace of life. Those friendships and memories brought him great happiness over the years.

At home, he could often be found sitting in his favorite chair, one that had been in the family since the 1970s, enjoying a cold beer while watching television. He had a fascination with documentaries about UFOs, Bigfoot, and anything related to science fiction. They sparked his curiosity and imagination, and he never tired of wondering what mysteries the world might still hold.

Music was another interest in his life. He loved picking up his guitar and playing songs by one of his favorite musicians, Neil Young.

He was a scrapper at heart-a natural tinkerer who loved taking things apart just to understand how they worked. If something was broken, he believed it was worth trying to fix before replacing it. He appreciated hard work, valued every dollar, and had an incredible ability to make the most of what he had. His practical nature and resourcefulness were qualities that defined him.

He was also loyal to the things he loved. Early in life he drove Oldsmobiles and later in life a pick-up truck, and as far as he was concerned, they had to have a standard transmission. That was simply the way it should be.

Although he lived a quiet and uncomplicated life, he leaves behind memories that will last forever. His family will remember the hikes, the music, the stories, the conversations, and the lessons he taught-not through grand speeches, but through the way he lived. He showed that happiness could be found in simple pleasures, that curiosity should never fade, and that a life doesn't have to be extravagant to be meaningful.

He is survived by his wife, Christy (nee Ohmer) Carter, daughter and son-in-law Melanie and Paul Mincey, son Jesse Carter; granddaughters; Madison, Ashlynn and Leslie Mincey, sister; Sharon Baldree, brother; Cedric Carter.

Following cremation, a memorial graveside service will take place in the Greenlawn Cemetery in Milford. The day and time will be announced soon.