Steven Jay Carter, of Benton, Arkansas, was called home on September 13, 2023. He was born July 1, 1957, in Inglewood, California.

Steve, 66, is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 32 years, Sonja; 3 children, Keith Carter, Kenny( Dawn) Carter, and Aryn ( Henry) Pepinos; stepchildren, Kari Scheller, Jennifer Wood, Amy (Charles) Howard, and Jonathan (Jennifer) Howard; parents, Wayne and Patricia Carter; siblings, David (Inge) Carter, Karen Carter, Paul Carter, and Ray (Cathy) Carter; He was fortunate to have 14 grandchildren who thought the world of their funny Papaw. Steve was so proud of each and every one.

When Steve entered Orange Glenn High School in Escondido, California, he hit the beach more than the books. He was known for having a wild, devil-may-care attitude. Those lucky enough to call him friend always saw him smiling, laughing, telling jokes, and racing his blue Camaro in the desert with his friends. Steve was filled with life and filled the people around him with equal amounts of excitement and fun.

After graduating high school in 1975, Steve began work in many fields including construction with his dad. Steve was talented working with his hands and loved to build and repair. He was a man that knew a little about a lot of things.

In 1991 Steve joined the Navy as the oldest recruit in his unit, he was dubbed "Dad". It was then he met
the love of his Life, Sonja Sue Rard. After locking eyes in a local bowling alley, they spoke every night and were quickly married on June 15, 1991, and later sealed in the Dallas Temple on June 24, 1995, as
members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

A graveside service  will be held on Thursday, September, 21st at 10:00 A.M. at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery with visitation the night prior from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home.