Michael Lee Carter

Michael Lee Carter passed away peacefully at his home in Laurel Hill, Florida and went home to be with the Lord on November 19th. Michael was born on January 2nd, 1950, in Florala, AL. to Chester L. and Gretchen Lorene Carter. Michael grew up alongside his two brothers Johnny and Richard. After graduating from Laurel Hill High School (Class of 1968), Michael continued his education at Okaloosa Walton Jr. College until July 1969 when he joined the U.S. Army. Michael served during the Vietnam Era under FORSCOM as a Light Wheel Vehicle/Power Generation Mechanic and later become an Administrative and Logistics Specialist. Michael retired as a Seargent First Class with an Honorable Discharge. He then worked several years within the U.S. Secret Service where he proudly served during the Bush and Clinton administrations. He went on to work with the Smithsonian managing the restoration of retired government assets based out of Fort Gillem Georgia. Throughout Michael’s career, he obtained formal training and certifications in various fields to include Locksmith, Safe Security, Electric and Oxygen Welding, Diagnostic Machinery, Heavy Equipment and Wheeled Vehicle Repair and Operation, Carpentry as a Master Craftsman, to the Operation of various Woodworking, Furniture and Upholstery Machines and Tools, to name a few talents and accomplishments from his diverse and fulfilling career.

Michael was also an avid Model A enthusiast. He restored and/or built from ground up several Model A’s and was working on a Model T. He truly loved to work on cabinetry and other wood and metal projects. Michael was a very smart man, often watching videos as research to expand his knowledge, then he would apply what he had learned and share his knowledge. Michael was innovative, had a mind that would never slow down and enjoyed sharing with and helping others.

Michael was a very giving man. He helped anyone that was down on their luck, by letting them work around his property. Michael would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He will be remembered for his generosity and loving nature.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Johnny and Richard Carter, and his beloved Aunt Edith. He is survived by his nephew Jason Carter, his nieces Lindsey Hagler, Deborah Boyett and Tyna Carter, his great nephew Carter Shackleford and two great nieces Leah Popejoy and Alleesia Carter.

A celebration of Michael’s life will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Whitehurst Power Funeral Home in Crestview Florida. Visitation begins at 9:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM. Burial service will then follow at Reeder Cemetery.

Cards and Flowers may be sent to the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in remembrance of him.

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