Raymond Thomas “Tom” Carter, born on September 14, 1944, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 30, 2024. Tom was a graduate of Beaver Falls High School, Class of 1962.
Tom served our country with distinction, spending four years on active duty in the United States Air Force. He was stationed for one year at Tan Son Nhut Air Base in South Vietnam, serving as a Air Police during the Vietnam War. After his active duty, he continued his service with the 911th Air Force Reserve for another four years. Tom was a respected member of the Beaver Falls American Legion.
His professional career was spent at Westinghouse-Cuttler Hammer, where he worked diligently as a Machine Repairman until his retirement. Not one to remain idle, Tom continued to work post-retirement at Rolling Acres Golf Course and as a security officer at Geneva College.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Caren Carter; his daughter Cammie (Jeffrey) Schoeneweis; his son TR (Darcie) Carter; and his cherished grandchildren, Courtney Small, Lacey (Edward) Kallen, Cody (Dallis) Schoeneweis, Creighton Carter and Brynn Carter. He also leaves behind his adored great-grandchildren Enzo, Isla, Addelyn, and Cody Jr.
Tom was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Benjamin Carter, Sr.; his mother, Dorothy Manion; brother Alfred (Ben) Carter Jr., sister Dolly Dedonker, nephew Alfred (Benny) Carter III, and niece Kelly Blythe.
Known for his infectious sense of humor and dedication to his family, Tom lived to make everyone around him laugh. He was truly the life of the party, always wearing a smile on his face and bringing joy to those around him. His kind soul and generous spirit touched everyone he met. Tom’s memory will be forever treasured by those who knew and loved him.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Monday, June 3rd from 2 – 4PM and 6-8 PM and Tuesday June 4th, 12pm until the time of service at 1PM in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Rd., Chippewa Twp., where family and friends can gather to honor his legacy and share in the joy he brought to all our lives.
Members of the Beaver County Special Unit will provide full military honors at 12:55am at the funeral home on Tuesday.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Advanced Hospice and their team for their exceptional care and compassion during Tom’s final days.